Navy Federal Credit Union

Walter Bethel graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1889.

Awards Received

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Division:

    American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    World War I

    War Department, General Orders No. 12 (1919)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Brigadier General Walter Augustus Bethel, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. As Judge Advocate of the American Expeditionary Forces, General Bethel organized this important department and administered its affairs with conspicuous efficiency from the date of the arrival in France of the first American combat troops. His marked legal ability and sound judgment were important factors in the splendid work of his department, and he at all times handled with success the various military and international problems that arose as a result of the operation of our armies.