Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    26th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    June 13, 1944

    Headquarters, FIRST U.S. Army, General Orders No. 39 (July 31, 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 (Infantry) Webb Woodrow Chesnut (ASN: 0-1299356), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 13 June 1944. When an enemy attack was launched against his company, First Lieutenant Chesnut, despite the heavy fire laid down by the enemy forces, refused to give ground. During the uneven engagement First Lieutenant Chesnut single-handedly assaulted an enemy machine gun nest which was inflicting heavy casualties on his company. Amid a hail of bullets and a barrage of hand grenades directed at him, he personally killed the crew and destroyed the gun. The personal bravery and courageous leadership displayed by First Lieutenant Chesnut exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.