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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 Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Theodore Elliott Boyd, United States Army Air Service, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 88th Aero Squadron (Attached), 7th Field Artillery, U.S. Army Air Service, A.E.F., near Conflans, France, 14 September 1918. Second Lieutenant Boyd, being detailed for the protection of a photographic mission with five other planes, proceeded on his mission, when three of the escorting planes failed to join the formation. While flying near Conflans the formation engaged in combat with five enemy pursuit planes. Wounded in both legs, the left foot, and the right elbow, he displayed exceptional tenacity and courage by continuing to fire his guns until the enemy were put to flight.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery)

    Batallion:

    88th Aero Squadron (Attached)

    Regiment:

    7th Field Artillery

    Division:

    American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    August 9, 1918
    GHQ, American Expeditionary Forces, Citation Orders No. 1 (June 3, 1919)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Theodore E. Boyd, United States Army Air Service, is cited by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Second Lieutenant Boyd distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving as an Observer with the 88th Aero Squadron, attached to the 7th Field Artillery, American Expeditionary Forces, in action between the Vesle and the Aisne, France, 9 August 1918, while protecting a photographic mission.