Medal of Honor: F. W. Stockham

FRED WILLIAM STOCKHAM (Army Medal)

Gunnery Sergeant, US Marine Corps; 96th Company, 2d Battalion, 6th Regiment

Born: 16 March 1881, Detroit, Michigan
Died: 22 June 1918, France

Citation: During an intense enemy bombardment with high explosive and gas shells which wounded or killed many members of the company [in the Bois-de-Belleau, France, on 13-14 June 1918], G/Sgt. 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.


Note: USS Stockham (DD 683) and USNS GYSGT Fred W Stockham (T-AK 3017) were named in his honour.