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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 (Air Service) David Haskins Backus, United States Army Air Service, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, U.S. Army Air Service, A.E.F., near Etain, France, 26 September 1918. Lieutenant Backus was one of a patrol of five monoplanes that were attacked by nine enemy planes (Fokker type) in a superior position. The American patrol leader, seeing the futility of giving combat, turned toward our lines with the enemy in close pursuit. One of our patrol, however, fell behind, and the enemy planes dove upon him. Lieutenant Backus, although beyond danger, seeing the predicament of his comrade, turned, and alone attacked the enemy, destroying one and dispersing the others.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Service

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Service)

    Batallion:

    49th Aero Squadron

    Regiment:

    2d Pursuit Group

    Division:

    American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 23, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 138 (1918)

    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 (Air Service) David Haskins Backus, United States Army Air Service, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, U.S. Army Air Service, A.E.F., in the region of Landreville, France, 23 October 1918. A patrol of American monoplace planes attacked an enemy formation of superior number. Flying rear position, Lieutenant Backus maneuvered above the attack to prevent other enemy planes from assisting their companions. In the midst of the combat he saw three planes escaping from battle. He immediately gave chase and attacked and shot down all three of the enemy.