Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    1st Gas Regiment

    Division:

    American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 9, 1918

    War Department, General Orders 87 (1919)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Christian F. M. Nelson (ASN: 524321), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 1st Gas Regiment, American Expeditionary Forces, near Brieulles, France, 9 October 1918. Displaying remarkable perseverance and daring as a runner, Private Nelson made his way 300 yards through a heavy barrage with a message for the commander of a Stokes motor platoon. Later he volunteered to lead four wounded men back through the barrage to an aid station. On the way he met three other wounded soldiers, one of whom had been severely gassed and was unable to walk. He carried this man to the dressing station, knowing that his clothes were saturated with mustard gas.