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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 pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Max C. Buchanan, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 28th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in the assault at Cantigny, France, 28 May 1918. Second Lieutenant Buchanan brilliantly led his platoon in the assault at Cantigny, France, reached his objective, consolidated his position successfully under heavy fire, continually walked up and down his line to instruct and encourage his men, until he was killed by an enemy shell.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant

    Regiment:

    28th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    May 27 – 31, 1918
    Headquarters, 1st Division, A.E.F., General Orders No. 26 (June 15, 1918)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Second Lieutenant M. C. Buchanan, United States Army, is cited (Posthumously) by the Commanding General, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Second Lieutenant Buchanan distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the 28th Infantry, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action during the operations connected with the capture and defense of Cantigny, France, 27 to 31 May 1918. Second Lieutenant Buchanan gallantly led his platoon in attack to its objective under heavy machine gun fire and during the consolidation went up and down the line encouraging and directing his men, regardless of personal danger, until he was killed by a shell.