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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 Gunnery Sergeant Samuel Clarkston (MCSN: 66465), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Machine-Gun Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F., in action near Beaumont, France, November 10 – 11, 1918. Leading the one remaining machine-gun crew across the River Meuse, Sergeant Clarkston, under trying conditions, established a stronghold from which he inflicted severe losses on the enemy.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Gunnery Sergeant

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    November 10 – 11, 1918

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gunnery Sergeant Samuel Clarkston (MCSN: 66465), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Machine-Gun Company, 5th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action near Beaumont, France, November 10 – 11, 1918. Leading the one remaining machine-gun crew across the River Meuse, Sergeant Clarkston, under trying conditions, established a stronghold from which he inflicted severe losses on the enemy.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Gunnery Sergeant

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    September 30 – November 11, 1918
    Citation Orders, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D. 1918), Gunnery Sergeant Samuel Clarkston (MCSN: 66465), United States Marine Corps, is cited by the Commanding General, SECOND DIVISION, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Gunnery Sergeant Clarkston distinguished himself while serving with Machine-Gun Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in France, 30 September to 11 November 1918.