The American general spoke first, taking the right hand of each lad.
“Well, I suppose you two young scamps know what we do over here to show our appreciation, eh?”
Both boys were silent and much embarrassed.
“Well, one American way, like that of the British, is to mention names in dispatches. You fellows won’t object to that when you hear what is going to be said of you. Corporal, there has been no braver part taken than that by you in the charge on the Bois de Belleau. And we have it that you did some fine work in Bouresches, and on Hill 165. And you—Master Red Cross driver—we have heard some great stories of you. But better than dispatches will be the Medals of Honor for both of you. Here is another matter: We have received data about the arrest of some spies. This, it seems, started back in the States and ended here. Well, that was notably fine work—fine work! But our friend here, Monsieur le Général Marcier, also has something to say.”
Mister the General, twirling his pointed mustache with a beaming smile, spoke what he had to say quite briefly and it was just as well that he did so, between very bad English and very nasal French, rapidly delivered, the boys could hardly get head or tail of it. They did, however, both get the well-known words at the end of the speech. These delightful syllables were Croix de Guerre. And then again the American commander spoke:
“It is by just such lads as you have proved yourselves to be that the enemy was stopped and turned back at Château-Thierry. And by many such as you this war will soon be won. You boys will be invalided home and sent across shortly. Be as good citizens as you have been brave men here. Good-bye and good luck!”
The officers went their way, making welcome little speeches to others. Don leaned over and slapped his friend gently on the back.
“Medal of Honor! and the Croix de Guerre!”
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