Nickerson DSC Citation and Photograph Donated to Post 64

May 21, 1955

..... The Distinguished Service Cross citation, awarded posthumously to Simeon L. Nickerson,

who heroically was killed in action on July 23, 1918, was presented today to the local Post of

the American Legion by Middleboro resident and cousin Ralph Nickerson.

..... The citation, which bears the signature of General John J. Pershing, was presented to

Post Commander William F. Begley. The citation reads:

..... “For extraordinary heroism in action near Epieds, France, 23 July, 1918. Sergt.

Nickerson, Corpl. M. J. O’Connell and Pvt. Thomas Ryan volunteered to cross an open field in

front of their company, in order to ascertain the location of enemy machine-guns. While

engaged in this courageous enterprise they were shot and killed. The heroic self-sacrifice of

these three men saved the lives of many of their comrades who would have been killed had the

company attempted to make the advance as a whole.”

.....Mr. Nickerson also presented the Post with a photograph of Simeon, which had hung for

many years in the Plymouth Armory. Young Nickerson had been a member of the Plymouth Guard. (Historian note: Simeon L. Nickerson's photo on Post 64's Centennial website is the one donated by his cousin.)

..... Commander Begley in accepting the mementos, expressed thanks on behalf of the Post. He

stated that the photograph and citation would suitably hung in the Legion Hall. He further

added, “these will be a constant reminder of the self-sacrifice and devotion to duty…”

displayed by Simeon L. Nickerson’s heroic actions.

.....The Post is observing the first day of “Simeon L. Nickerson Post 64 Week” in Middleboro.

The Post is observing its 35th anniversary during the week of May 23-28.The week long

observance will be climaxed on Saturday, May 28. Legionnaires will gather at Town Hall at 8

p.m. to honor the Post. United States Senator Leverett Saltonstall will address the gathering.
..............................( Compiled by Bob Lessard Historian 2014)