Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Colonel (Cavalry) Herbert Jay Brees, United States Army, is cited for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Colonel Brees distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the General Staff, 91st Division, in action near Very, France, 27 – 28 September 1918. While serving as Chief of Staff, 91st Division, he personally visited the extreme front lines under intense artillery, rifle, and machine gun fire to confer with unit commanders. By this action and the disregard of personal danger, he was a great source of inspiration to the entire command.

Awards Received

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (General Staff)

    Division:

    7th Army Corps, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    World War I
    War Department, General Orders No. 87 (1919)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Colonel (General Staff) Herbert Jay Brees, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. General Brees served with distinction as Chief of Staff of the 91st Division throughout its training period and during the greater part of its active operations. His marked administrative ability was reflected in the successes of this division during the first phases of the Meuse-Argonne operations. Later, as Chief of Staff of the 7th Army Corps, he rendered invaluable services in perfecting the necessary organization for the march into the German territory, overcoming grave difficulties in securing supplies and equipment.