Navy Federal Credit Union

Otto Benell was credited with 1 aerial victory in World War I.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Service

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Air Service)

    Batallion:

    135th Aero Squadron

    Division:

    American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    September 12, 1918

    War Department, General Orders No. 140 (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 Second Lieutenant (Air Service) Otto Earl Benell, United States Army Air Service, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 135th Aero Squadron, U.S. Army Air Service, A.E.F., near Thiaucourt, France, 12 September 1918, Lieutenant Benell went out on a two-hour counter attack artillery adjustment under adverse weather conditions. Soon after he suffered an accident to his right hand, which made it useless. In spite of this injury, he continued to operate his wireless key with his left hand, directing the fire of the batteries on concentrations behind the enemy lines.