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) George Williams, 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 Williams distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer, 316th Infantry Regiment, 79th Division, in action near the Borne du Cornouiller, France, 3 – 4 November 1918. Although badly gassed, Colonel Williams refused to be evacuated and continued in command of his regiment until he finally collapsed.

Awards Received

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Cavalry)

    Regiment:

    316th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    79th Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    November 3 – 6, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 17 (1928)

    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 (Cavalry) George Williams, 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. As Regimental Commander, 316th Infantry Regiment, 79th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Colonel Williams rare professional ability and outstanding devotion to duty brought his regiment to a high point of training and morale; his brilliant leadership notably in the assault and capture of the Borne du Cornouiller, France, Hill 378, 3 – 6 November 1918, during which action his regiment was opposed by enemy forces vastly superior in number; Colonel Williams added materially to the efficiency and effectiveness of his division in its operations against the enemy.