Fred William Stockham

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Gunnery Sergeant Fred William Stockham (MCSN: 74310), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 96th Company, Second Battalion, 6th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action at Bois-de-Belleau, France, 13-14 June 1918. During an intense enemy bombardment with high explosive and gas shells which wounded or killed many members of the company, Gunnery Sergeant Stockham, upon noticing that the gas mask of a wounded comrade was shot away, without hesitation, removed his own gas mask and insisted upon giving it to the wounded man, well knowing that the effects of the gas would be fatal to himself. He continued with undaunted courage and valor to direct and assist in the evacuation of the wounded, until he himself collapsed from the effects of 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.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 15 (July 1939)

Action Date: June 13 & 14, 1918

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Gunnery Sergeant

Company: 96th Company

Battalion: 2d Battalion

Regiment: 6th Regiment (Marines)

Division: 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_W._Stockham