Charles A. Doyen

Brigadier General Charles Augustus Doyen (September 3, 1859 − October 6, 1918) was an officer in the United States Marine Corps (USMC).

He is notable for having commanded the 4th Marine Brigade during World War I and was the first recipient of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal.

His early military career consisted mainly of tours with marine detachments aboard ship, barracks assignments and service overseas, such as in the Philippines.

The brigade soon found itself fighting at Belleau Wood and its performance there and in other battles that were yet to come were a tribute to Doyen and his efforts to prepare his marines.

[1] The citation for the medal reads: The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal (Posthumously) to Brigadier General Charles Augustus Doyen, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services.

By reason of his abilities and personal efforts, Brigadier General Doyen brought this brigade to the very high state of efficiency which enabled it to successfully resist the German Army in the Chateau-Thierry sector and Belleau Woods.

Brigadier General Charles A. Doyen, commanding the 4th Marine Brigade, and sone members of his brigade staff, at Damblain , France, February 1918. To Doyen's left is Major Holland Smith , the brigade adjutant , and Lieutenant Goodman, Doyen's aide-de-camp .