Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Regiment:

    108th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    27th Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    September 29 – 30, 1918

    War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

    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 Sergeant Martin M. Smith (ASN: 1214761), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company G, 108th Infantry Regiment, 27th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Ronssoy, France, September 29 – 30, 1918. Sergeant Smith exhibited exceptional gallantry and ability in leadership when after being severely shell shocked, he continued to direct the steady advance of his platoon under intense machine-gun and shell fire, with utter disregard for his personal safety. He continued with his platoon until the morning of 13 September when he collapsed as the result of shell shock and was evacuated to the rear.