Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles Raymond McChesney (ASN: 0-2005712), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Cannon Company, 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 – 24 March 1945, near Sassenberg, Germany. Following a night attack, the enemy savagely counterattacked with a tank and two hundred infantryman. Unhesitatingly, Second Lieutenant McChesney directed a deadly barrage of defensive fires which completely repulsed the enemy. He quickly established a dangerously exposed observation post. The enemy plunged forward with two self-propelled 88 millimeter guns firing directly upon his position. Second Lieutenant McChesney then ordered his men to safety but stubbornly refused to abandon his position in spite of the enemy’s murderous fire. He called down cannon fire which destroyed one enemy gun. As he adjusted fire upon the second, the enemy scored a direct hit which killed him instantly. Lieutenant McChesney’s magnificent courage, stubborn determination, and undying devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and exemplified the finest traditions of the Army of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    415th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    104th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    March 23 – 24, 1945

    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 576 (October 4, 1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles Raymond McChesney (ASN: 0-2005712), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Cannon Company, 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Sassenberg, Germany, on 23 and 24 March 1945. Second Lieutenant McChesney’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 104th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.