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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 Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert Leroy Nesbit, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 130th Infantry Regiment, 33d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Marcheville, France, 6 November 1918. During a raid, Lieutenant Nesbit in command of a platoon in the first wave encountered terrific artillery and machine-gun fire from the front and flank. With utter disregard of his personal safety he rushed forward and so inspired his men that they were able to clear out several machine-gun nests and hold the position gained. Lieutenant Nesbit’s courage and bravery were a source of inspiration not only to the men of his own platoon but also to the members of other companies who participated in the raid.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    130th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    33d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    November 10, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 8 (1934)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert Leroy Nesbit, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 130th Infantry Regiment, 33d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Marcheville, France, 6 November 1918. Lieutenant Nesbit displayed the utmost bravery and outstanding courage when, leading a daylight patrol of seven men, he succeeded in penetrating the enemy lines and obtaining valuable information. His patrol was surrounded by an organized group of about 20 of the enemy. Despite this numerical superiority, he attacked and together with his patrol succeeded in killing several of the enemy and capturing one prisoner. Lieutenant Nesbit so successfully maneuvered his patrol under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire that he returned them to our lines without suffering a casualty.