Navy Federal Credit Union

Harry Hodges Semmes, Jr.’s father by the same name earned two Distinguished Service Crosses in World War II, and a third Distinguished Service Cross in World War II, making them rare father/son recipients of the Army’s highest award for valor.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Cavalry)

    Batallion:

    708th Amphibian Tank Battalion (Separate)

    Division:

    27th Infantry Division (Attached)

    Action Date:

    June 15, 1944

    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces-Pacific Ocean Areas, General Orders No. 2 (January 6, 1945)

    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 (Cavalry) Harry Hodges Semmes, Jr., United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 708th Amphibian Tractor Battalion (Separate), attached to the 27th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Saipan, Northern Marianas Island, Pacific Theater of Operations, on 15 June 1944. During the landing operations, Lieutenant Semmes, platoon leader in an amphibious tank company, was struck by shell fragments which pierced his right eye and lodged in his nose. He continued to lead the tanks shoreward. On the beach he refused medical aid, turned the platoon over to the ranking sergeant, and set off afoot for treatment of his wound. About 600 yards from the beach, he saw an immobilized tank and brought repair crews back to the vehicle, and supervised the work. Walking 900 yards to an aid station, Lieutenant Semmes was given treatment and started to rejoin his unit until he was restrained by medical officers who ordered his evacuation. Second Lieutenant Semmes’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.