Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC) Preston Alexander McLendon, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action as Assistant Surgeon, serving with the First Battalion, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Blanc Mont, France, October 3 – 4, 1918. During heavy action, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, McLendon continually pushed his dressing station to more advantageous positions; although in great danger because of a severe shelling. He dressed his patients in an exposed position, using his dugout for the seriously wounded.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 3 – 4, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 37 (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 Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC) Preston Alexander McLendon, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action as Assistant Surgeon, serving with the First Battalion, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Blanc Mont, France, October 3 – 4, 1918. During heavy action Lieutenant, Junior Grade, McLendon continually pushed his dressing station to more advantageous positions. Although in great danger because of a severe shelling, he dressed his patients in an exposed position, using his dugout for the seriously wounded.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant (MC)

    Regiment:

    5th Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    World War I
    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Citation Order No. 88 (1918)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Lieutenant (MC) Preston Alexander McLendon, United States Navy, is cited by the Commanding General, SECOND DIVISION A.E.F., for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Lieutenant McLendon distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving as Assistant Surgeon attached to the Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action during World War I. Lieutenant McLendon exhibited heroism and devotion to duty by establishing advanced dressing stations and maintaining them as close to the front as possible in order to better take care of the wounded. He was constantly exposed to heavy shell and machine-gun fire but showed an utter disregard for personal safety in rendering first aid to the wounded and seeing to their evacuation.