for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in Bois-de-Belleau, France on the night of June 13-14, 1918:

Rank and Organization: Gunnery Sergeant. 96th Company, 2nd Battalion,6th Regiment, United States Marine Corps

Place and date: Bois-de-Belleau, France on the night of June 13-14, 1918

Citation: Fred W. Stockham, Gunnery Sergeant, 96th Company, 2nd Battalion,6th Regiment, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy in Bois-de-Belleau, France, on the night of June 13-14, 1918. During an intense enemy bombardment with high explosive and gas shells which wounded or killed many members of the company, Sergeant Stockham, upon noticing that the gas mask of a wounded comrade was shot away, without hesitation, removed his own mask and insisted upon giving it to the wounded man, well knowing that the effects of the gas would be fatal to himself. Despite the fact that he was without protection of a gas mask, he continued with undaunted courage and valor to direct and assist in the evacuation of the wounded in an area saturated with gas and swept by heavy artillery fire, until he himself collapsed from the effects of the gas, dying as a result thereof a few days later. His courageous conduct undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his wounded comrades and his conspicuous gallantry and spirit of self- sacrifice were a source of great inspiration to all who served with him.

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