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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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Hamilton Johnston, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Launay, France, 15 July 1918. Lieutenant Johnston, with two soldiers, attacked a patrol of seven Germans who had captured four American soldiers, killed one of the Germans, and captured the others.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    38th 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), Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Hamilton Johnston, 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 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Lieutenant Johnston distinguished himself by excellent handling of the men attached to the 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, on the march from Romagne to Bois de Mataumont. While on the march the enemy discovered our movement and laid down a terrific barrage. They were making direct hits on Lieutenant Johnston’s column thus making it nearly impossible to control his men. Lieutenant Johnston kept his men intact and led them through the barrage to a place of safety. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]