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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 Corporal August H. Deford (ASN: 58679), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 28th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, at Cantigny, France, 28 May 1918. Although wounded three times in the attack, Corporal De Ford showed conspicuous bravery in assisting to capture a machine-gun which was causing heavy losses. Although nearly exhausted, he captured three prisoners and made them secure before accepting attention to his injuries.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    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), Corporal August H. DeFord, United States Army, is cited 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. Corporal DeFord distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 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. Corporal DeFord although wounded three times, captured single-handed an enemy machine gun which was causing heavy losses and with it took three prisoners back until he could go no further because of complete exhaustion.