Medal of Honor: George S. Robb, World War I, September 29–30, 1918

Name: George S. Robb
Rank: First Lieutenant
War: World War I
Date of Action:
Unit: 369th Infantry, 93rd Division (“Harlem Hellfighters”)
Accredited to: Salina, Kansas

Summary of Action
During the assault near Sechault, France, Lieutenant George Robb led his platoon into withering machine gun fire and was severely wounded. Ordered to the rear, he refused to remain out of action—returning within 45 minutes to resume command. Through the night, bleeding but unbowed, he inspected his lines and set outposts. The next morning, he was struck again, yet stayed at the front. Later that day, a shell blast tore into him a third time, killing his company commander and two fellow officers. Robb took command of the company, organized defenses, and personally cleared German machine gun and sniper positions. By the end of the day, he was the only officer of his battalion who had advanced beyond Sechault. His resilience, devotion to duty, and refusal to yield, even after multiple wounds, inspired his men and secured the battalion’s objective.

Medal of Honor Citation
ROBB, GEORGE S.
Rank and organization: First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, 369th Infantry, 93d Division. Place and date: Near Sechault, France, 29–30 September 1918. Entered service at: Salina, Kans. Born: 18 May 1887, Assaria, Kans. G.O. No.: 16, W.D., 1919. Citation: While leading his platoon in the assault 1st Lt. Robb was severely wounded by machinegun fire, but rather than go to the rear for proper treatment he remained with his platoon until ordered to the dressing station by his commanding officer. Returning within 45 minutes, he remained on duty throughout the entire night, inspecting his lines and establishing outposts. Early the next morning he was again wounded, once again displaying his remarkable devotion to duty by remaining in command of his platoon. Later the same day a bursting shell added 2 more wounds, the same shell killing his commanding officer and 2 officers of his company. He then assumed command of the company and organized its position in the trenches. Displaying wonderful courage and tenacity at the critical times, he was the only officer of his battalion who advanced beyond the town, and by clearing machinegun and sniping posts contributed largely to the aid of his battalion in holding their objective. His example of bravery and fortitude and his eagerness to continue with his mission despite severe wounds set before the enlisted men of his command a most wonderful standard of morale and self-sacrifice.