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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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) James Henry Gay, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Crezancy, France, 15 July 1918. When his small force of about 30 men was almost entirely surrounded by greatly superior forces of the enemy, Lieutenant Gay, refusing to surrender, cut his way out by delivering a deadly fire from both his front and rear. He also captured about 150 prisoners, including a major, and his remarkable gallantry aided greatly in breaking up the German drive of July 15.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    30th 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), First Lieutenant (Infantry) James H. Gay, 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 the 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Lieutenant Gay displayed conspicuous bravery, coolness, and leadership during the attack on 15 July 1918, near Crezancy, France, when almost surrounded by the enemy, exhibiting remarkable foresight by delivering fire both to his front and rear, he surrounded the enemy and captured 150 prisoners including one Major. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]