Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Major (Infantry) Everett Selden Simpson (ASN: 0-405521), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters, 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry division, in action against enemy forces near Remiremont, France, on 28 September 1944. During an attack on Hill 630 the leading elements of the 3d Battalion were subjected to intense enemy fire from both flanks. Major Simpson who was with the leading assault platoon, immediately ordered the establishment of a command post and aid station, then pressed forward with his companies. In the face of the hostile fire, he then set up a defensive position and moved from company to company to point out their positions and sectors of fire. While he was advancing across the fire-swept area, he was seriously wounded by an exploding mortar shell. Despite his severe wound he refused to be evacuated by a litter so that the other wounded men could be removed more promptly. While two aid men were assisting him to the battalion aid station, Major Simpson shouted orders to the soldiers he passed, encouraging them to push forward. Even at the aid station his first thoughts were for his men, and, while his painful wound was being dressed, he issued instructions concerning plans for a forthcoming attack. His extraordinary heroism exemplifies the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    142d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    36th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 36th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 140 (1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Everett Selden Simpson (ASN: 0-405521), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy, in 1945. Lieutenant Colonel Simpson distinguished himself by moving under fire to direct an attack when communications became inadequate. Accompanied by a runner and radio operator, he crossed a river under direct enemy observation and fire. They crossed 1,000 yards of open field to enter the town under assault, and moved under sniper fire to forward elements to encourage them and direct their fire. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Simpson, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.