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 Sergeant Vernon John Crossen (MCSN: 99876), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Eighteenth Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F., in action near Landres-et-St. Georges, France, November 1 – 4, 1918. While Sergeant Crossen was forming an attack a shell hit in the midst of his platoon. Disregarding the heavy counter-barrage, he reorganized his command and led them in attack, continuing for three days, when he was killed.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    November 1 – 4, 1918

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Vernon J. Crossen (MCSN: 99876), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 18th Company, 5th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action near Landres-et-St. Georges, France, November 1 – 4, 1918. While Sergeant Crossen was forming an attack a shell hit in the midst of his platoon. Disregarding the heavy counter-barrage, he reorganized his command and led them in attack, continuing for three days, when he was killed.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    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), Sergeant Vernon J. Crossen (MCSN: 99876), United States Marine Corps, is cited (Posthumously) 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. Sergeant Crossen distinguished himself while serving with the 18th Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in France, 30 September to 11 November 1918.