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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Sergeant Robert I. Birch (ASN: 42660), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Sedan, France, November 6 – 7, 1918. Sergeant Birch voluntarily led a small group against an enemy machine-gun nest which was impeding the progress of his company. Although severely wounded in the attack, he succeeded in silencing the gun nest, and remained until the mission was completed.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Regiment:

    16th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    November 7, 1918
    GHQ, American Expeditionary Forces, Citation Orders No. 9 (August 1, 1920)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Sergeant Robert I. Birch (ASN: 42660), United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Sergeant Birch distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action south of Sedan, France, 7 November 1918, while leading a platoon in an attack.