Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Field Artillery)

    Batallion:

    947th Field Artillery Battalion

    Division:

    41st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 28 – 29, 1944

    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 89 (September 2, 1944)

    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 (Field Artillery) Edward Douglas Doughty, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Battery C, 947th Field Artillery Battalion, 41st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 & 29 May 1944, on Biak Island, Schouten Group. When the enemy had isolated an infantry battalion on a narrow coastal strip and was delivering heavy fire from caves in the cliff above, First Lieutenant Doughty volunteered to go forward by boat to join the isolated unit and give them relief from counterattacks by directing artillery fire. He accomplished the landing despite heavy enemy fire and joining the advance elements climbed on top of the lead tank which was drawing mortar and machine gun fire, to register the fire of his artillery. As enemy fire increased, all personnel outside the tanks moved away except First Lieutenant Doughty who left the tank an advanced several more yards to get better observation. His disregard for his personal safety was responsible for the accurate fire from his artillery guns that broke the attack. Later the situation became acute, and in order to effect a withdrawal it was necessary for the infantry troops to fight their way a distance of two miles. First Lieutenant Doughty placed himself with the element of the rearguard nearest the enemy and under exceptionally heavy enemy fire accurately directed his artillery fire, which permitted the safe withdrawal of the infantry. First Lieutenant Doughty’s courage and coolness on this occasion were of great assistance to our forces. His inspiring leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.