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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant John Albert West (MCSN: 0-3559), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 6th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action near Blanc Mont Ridge, France, October 2 – 5, 1918. Second Lieutenant West voluntarily led a reconnaissance patrol under difficult conditions and secured information necessary to an attack. Three days later, after the command of his company had devolved on him, he continued in action in spite of being severely wounded, leading his men to the objective and refusing to be evacuated until proper disposition had been made.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant

    Regiment:

    Sixth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    November 11, 1918
    Authority: Blakeney (2d Division, A.E.F. Orders) GO 88

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Second Lieutenant John Albert West (MCSN: 0-3559), United States Marine Corps, is cited by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Second Lieutenant West distinguished himself while serving with the Sixth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces during World War I.

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant

    Regiment:

    Sixth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 2 – 5, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)

    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 Second Lieutenant John Albert West (MCSN: 0-3559), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Sixth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F., in action near Blanc Mont Ridge, France, October 2 – 5, 1918. Second Lieutenant West voluntarily led a reconnaissance patrol under difficult conditions and secured information necessary to an attack. Three days later, after the command of his company had devolved on him, he continued in action in spite of being severely wounded, leading his men to the objective and refusing to be evacuated until proper disposition had been made.