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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 Sergeant Chalmer R. Morris (ASN: 549979), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Gland, France, 17 June 1918, and near Jaulgonne, France, 22 July 1918. On 17 June after an attempt to cross the Marne in a boat failed, due to its sinking, Sergeant Morris with two others, swam the Marne River, penetrated the German line, and returned with valuable information. On 22 July he advanced in front of the lines through a wood, exposing himself to heavy enemy fire in order to maintain communication with the organization on the left.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Sergeant

    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), First Sergeant Chalmer R. Morris (ASN: 549979), 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 C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, First Sergeant Morris took charge of a platoon after the barrage on 15 July 1918. His courage and coolness was conspicuous in the way he handled his men during heavy shell and machine gun fire. His coolness and good judgment under intense fire enabled him to save his men.