Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Regiment:

    312th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    78th Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 16 – 20, 1918

    War Department, General Orders No. 35 (1919)

    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 James J. Donovan (ASN: 2411771), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 312th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 78th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Grand Pre, France, October 16 – 20, 1918. In the face of heavy shell and machine-gun fire, and continuous gas attacks, Corporal Donovan established and maintained for four days a dressing station in a most advanced position. When an enemy attack seemed imminent, he refused to retire to safety, but remained at his post, being relieved, after his comrades had advanced.