Sponsored by:

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 Corporal Robert W. Colflesh (ASN: 2395261), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Fossoy, France, 14 July 1918. After his men had been caught in an intense artillery shelling, Corporal Colflesh, although wounded, refused to seek shelter until all his men had taken cover. While aiding the last man into a trench he received a second wound.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Regiment:

    7th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    July 14, 1918
    Headquarters, 3d Division, A.E.F., Citation Orders No. 22 (July 8, 1919)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Corporal Robert Colflesh (ASN: 2395261), United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the World War I Victory Medals awarded him. While serving with Company M, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, on the night of 14 July 1918, near Fossoy, France, Corporal Colflesh displayed exceptional heroism and presence of mind when his men were caught in an intense enemy shell fire. Although wounded and in great pain, he saw that all his men were placed in positions of shelter before seeking cover himself. He was wounded a second time while helping the last man of his party into a trench. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]