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 Private First Class John W. Derry (ASN: 2213873), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company D, 4th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Nesles, France, 15 July 1918. Private First Class Derry requested permission to leave the trenches and to assist the wounded. Under heavy artillery bombardment of the enemy, he aided many wounded comrades to a dressing station, returning with litters for the more seriously wounded.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    4th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    July 15, 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), Private First Class John W. Derry (ASN: 2213873), 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 D, 4th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Private First Class Derry left the trenches near Nesles on 15 July 1918, under heavy shell bombardment and made repeated trips to the battalion aid station with wounded. He also made repeated trips to company Post of Command carrying messages and returning with litters for the wounded. Although he had to go through heavy shell and gas areas his efforts were untiring, showing great courage and utter disregard for his own safety. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]