Alfred Parker McPeters was born on November 6, 1913, in Selma, Alabama. He served in the 315th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division as a First Lieutenant during World War II.

On June 25, near Hardinvast, at the base of the peninsula, McPeters, earned the Silver Star—and the Purple Heart. While leading his platoon against a heavily defended enemy position, the 30-year-old was struck by a grenade fragment. Although bleeding profusely, McPeters administered first aid to himself and continued to direct his men until the enemy strongpoint was neutralized. Only then, and only when ordered by a more senior officer, did McPeters seek medical treatment.

Assigned to Lieutenant General Courtney Hodges' First Army, the 79th Infantry Division remained on the offensive throughout July, crossing the Ay, Sarthe and Seine Rivers as First Army chased the retreating Germans across France. In late August, with Allied supply lines stretched, the Germans counterattacked. In fierce fighting that lasted for a week, the 79th held its lines, but First Lieutenant McPeters was killed.

Distinguished Service Cross Citation:
GENERAL ORDERS:
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 206 (1945)

CITATION:
(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Alfred P. McPeters (ASN: 0-352153), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 315th Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 28 August 1944. First Lieutenant McPeters' intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

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