Chester Howard West

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to First Sergeant Chester Howard West (ASN: 2263711), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 26 September 1918, while serving with Company D, 363d Infantry, 91st Division, in action at Bois-de-Cheppy, France. While making his way through a thick fog with his automatic rifle section, First Sergeant West's advance was halted by direct and unusual machinegun fire from two guns. Without aid, he at once dashed through the fire and, attacking the nest, killed two of the gunners, one of whom was an officer. This prompt and decisive hand-to-hand encounter on his part enabled his company to advance farther without the loss of a man.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 34 (March 07, 1919)

Action Date: 26-Sep-18

Service: Army

Rank: First Sergeant

Company: Company D

Regiment: 363d Infantry

Division: 91st Division