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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 Sergeant John J. Harmon (ASN: 549690), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in the Meuse-Argonne offensive, France, 10 October 1918. Sergeant Harmon showed exceptional courage, initiative, and devotion to duty. After all the company officers were either killed or wounded, he assumed command, and with absolute disregard of his own safety did reorganize, under intense shell and machine-gun fire, the scattering units of the company and fearlessly led them to their objective. By this action many casualties were avoided, and by his personal example of coolness and courage the men were so encouraged and stimulated that they accomplished their difficult task.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 10, 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), Sergeant John J. Harmon (ASN: 549690), 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 B, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Sergeant Harmon showed exceptional bravery and coolness in action and at a time when all officers were either killed or wounded, took command of the Company and led them to their objective. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]