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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 Private Elmer Vern Rice (ASN: 548068), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in the Bois d’Aigremont, France, 15 July 1918. During the intense artillery fire preceding the German attack of 15 July after another runner had been sent with a message from the battalion post of command and had been unable to get through the wood, which was being heavily bombarded, Private Rice volunteered for this seemingly impossible mission and successfully accomplished it. Throughout the night he declined to take cover, but continued to search for wounded men, exposing himself to the heaviest fire.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    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), Private Elmer V. Rice (ASN: 548068), 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 L, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Private Rice displayed great courage at Bois d’Aigremont, France, on 15 July 1918, in carrying messages during the heavy German barrage and in assisting wounded men under fire. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]