Major General Charles J. Timmes was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his extraordinary heroism while a lieutenant colonel commanding the 2nd Battalion, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiments, 82nd Airborne Division on 3 July 1944, near Le Haye de Puit, France. Leading his battalion through a gap in enemy lines during the hours of darkness, Lieutenant Colonel Timmes occupied the forward slope of a hill held by an enemy battalion and supported by 88 mm and 150 mm mortars. At daylight the enemy, discovering Lieutenant Colonel Timmesís battalion immediately attacked on the flank. During the ensuing engagement, this courageous officer constantly reformed his lines and personally led a counter-attack which repulsed an enemy breakthrough. Shortly hereafter, enemy artillery began laying direct fire on the battalionís positions. Rapidly mounting casualties caused the men to become panicky but Lieutenant Colonel Timmes fearlessly visited every forward foxhole and encouraged each man. This heroic leadership performed under intense artillery, mortar and small arms fire so inspired all his men that they successfully held their positions. Lieutenant Colonel Timmesí actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the armed forces.

Mr. Timmes had been a member of the Legion of Valor since 1977 adn resided in Virginia.