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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 Louie Rettman (ASN: 545460), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company B, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Crezancy, France, 15 July 1918. After company officers had become casualties, Sergeant Rettman reorganized the remnants of the company and took and held an important position against strong enemy attacks. His company commander having been left wounded in advance of the new line, Sergeant Rettman exposed himself to heavy fire in order to carry him to shelter.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Sergeant

    Regiment:

    30th 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 Louie Rettman (ASN: 545460), 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, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, on 15 July 1918, when all the company officers were killed or wounded, Sergeant Rettman formed the remnants of the company and took up a position near Crezancy road and held it against heavy odds and rescued his wounded Captain from being captured. Through the coolness, leadership, and bravery of Sergeant Rettman it was possible to keep the line until it was properly relieved. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]