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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) John R. Marchant, United States Army, is cited (Posthumously) by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. First Lieutenant (Infantry) Marchant distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the 131st Infantry Regiment, 33d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Consenvoye, France, 11 October 1918. Although severely wounded, he continued to lead his platoon in the attack

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    131st Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    33d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 11, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 49 (1922)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John R. Marchant, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 131st Infantry Regiment, 33d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, east of the Meuse River and north of Consenvoye, France, 11 October 1918. While commanding his company in an attack in which he was severely wounded Lieutenant Marchant displayed the highest type of courage and leadership by leading his men until the objective was reached, and then holding it against several severe counterattacks until he was killed. His example of bravery and devotion to duty so inspired his men that although temporarily without a company commander they successfully repulsed the counterattacks and held the line intact at a critical point.