Sponsored by:

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 Hospital Apprentice Absalom Frank Bear (NSN: 303756), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to the Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near St. Etienne, France, 4 October 1918. During a heavy bombardment, Apprentice Bear went to an advanced observation post, dressed the wounds of a comrade, and conducted him to the rear.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Hospital Apprentice First Class

    Regiment:

    5th Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 4, 1918
    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Citation Order No. 88 (1918)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Hospital Apprentice First Class Absalom F. Bear (NSN: 303756), United States Navy, is cited by the Commanding General, SECOND DIVISION A.E.F., for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Hospital Apprentice First Class Bear distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to the Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near St. Etienne-a-Arnes, France, 4 October 1918. Hospital Apprentice First Class Bear displayed extreme courage and ability in caring for and evacuating the wounded under heavy shell and machine-gun fire. He showed exceptional bravery and disregard for personal safety in going out under heavy shell and machine-gun fire to carry wounded comrades to a safe place from which they might be evacuated.