William J. Donovan Distinguished Service Cross Citation

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 Colonel (Infantry) William Joseph “Wild Bill” Donovan (ASN: 0-102383), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 165th Infantry Regiment, 42d Division, A.E.F., near Villers-sur-Fere, France, July 28 – 31, 1918. Colonel Donovan led his battalion across the River Ourcq and captured important enemy strong holds. He was in advance of the division for four days, all the while under shell and machine-gun fire from the enemy, who were on three sides of him, and he was repeatedly and persistently counter-attacked, being wounded twice. Colonel Donovan’s coolness and efficient leadership rendered possible the maintenance of this position.

Born Jan. 1, 1883 in Buffalo, N.Y…. Organized and led a troop of cavalry in the New York State Militia that served on the Mexican border during the Pancho Villa campaign… Considered the “Father of American Intelligence” for forming the Office of Strategic Services during World War II, which became the Central Intelligence Agency… Also awarded the Medal of Honor and two Purple Hearts… Departed: Feb. 8, 1959… Buried: Arlington National Cemetery