Lt. Phelps served as an observer with the 5th Balloon Company, A.E.F., and had the distinction of making the most jumps from a balloon. His citation for the Distinguished Service Cross Reads:
Near Villers-sur-Marne, France, July 15, and August 7, 1918; and near Chatel-Chehery, France, July 15, August 7th, 1918; and near Chatel-Chehery, France, October 27-30, 1918. G.O.#46, W.D. ’19.
“While regulating artillery from his balloon, Lt. Phelps, with another observer, was attacked by 3 enemy planes and forced to jump after his balloon had been set on fire. On four other occasions, his balloon was sent down in flames after being attacked by superior numbers of the enemy, but on each occasion, he resumed his work just as soon as another balloon could be obtained.”
He also received the Croix de Guerre and Aero Club of America medal.
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