Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

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) Neilson Poe, United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Second Lieutenant Poe distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the 28th Infantry, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action during the operations connected with the capture and defense of Cantigny, France, 27 to 31 May 1918. Second Lieutenant Neilson displayed exceptional courage in getting supports up to the front line under heavy machine gun fire.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    28th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    July 19, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 72 (1920)

    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) Neilson Poe, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 28th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Soissons, France, 19 July 1918. During the attack of his organization, after he had been severely wounded, Lieutenant Poe refused to be evacuated, but rejoined his organization and went forward to the attack through heavy enemy fire. The company commander being killed, Lieutenant Poe took command of the company and continued to direct it until the day’s objective was reached. Although suffering great pain, he remained with his organization for more than 24 hours after he was wounded.