Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    151st Field Artillery Regiment

    Division:

    42d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    September 21, 1918

    War Department, General Orders No. 128 (1918)

    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 Carl Otto Wenell (ASN: 1240), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 151st Field Artillery (Attached), 42d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, at Pannes, France, 21 September 1918. Private Wenell displayed the highest bravery and self-sacrificing spirit by voluntarily leaving shelter during a heavy hostile bombardment and going to the assistance of several wounded men of another regiment, whose position adjoined that of his own organization. Under terrific shell fire he skillfully dressed their wounds and then removed them to a place of safety, thereby saving their lives. Again returning to the shell-swept street, he made a careful reconnaissance for any other casualties which might have been overlooked.