Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Medical Corps)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    503d Parachute Infantry Regiment (Separate)

    Action Date:

    November 8, 1942

    Allied Force Headquarters, General Orders No. 19 (November 23, 1942)

    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 Captain (Medical Corps) William W. Moir, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer attached to Company C, 1st Battalion, 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment (Separate), in action against enemy forces near Oran, Algeria, on 8 November 1942. While acting in the capacity of medical officer in a flight of three transport planes moving personnel of his battalion on the morning of 8 November 1942, Captain Moir was suddenly shot down by attacking enemy planes near Oran. During the attacks in the air and the ensuing strafing on the ground, Captain Moir distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism against the armed enemy by inspiring administration of medical attention to wounded personnel. Although wounded in the head by a 20-mm. shell fragment and in the shoulder by machine gun fire from strafing airplanes, Captain Moir, with the help of a sergeant and two company Aidmen, attended over 20 paratroopers who were injured. He and his men stayed at their post for 24 hours before being relieved. Captain Moir’s extraordinary heroism, 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.