ARKADIS, NICKOLAS DANIEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Nickolas Daniel Arkadis (0-49915),
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity in action against an armed enemy while serving with the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in the Naktong River sector of Korea
on 17 August 1950. On this date, while aggressively leading a rifle
platoon in an attack against the enemy, Lieutenant Arkadis was struck in
the arm by fragments from an enemy shell. Although painfully wounded he
continued to lead his platoon until forced to stop due to loss of blood.
His heroic actions, courageous leadership and devotion to duty
contributed materially to the success of the attack. The gallantry
displayed by Lieutenant Arkadis reflects great credit on himself and the
United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, EUSAK, General Orders
162 (November 8, 1950)
Home Town: California
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Bronze Star w/V, Purple Heart
ARNOLD, MARION D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Marion D. Arnold (668026), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, in Korea, on 26 September 1950. Private First
Class Arnold was serving as a Squad Leader of a machine gun squad
attached to a rifle platoon engaged in bitter house-to-house street
fighting in the assault through the city of Seoul, Korea. He had his
machine gun set up at a road block, and was delivering covering fire for
the rifle platoon which was receiving heavy small arms and anti-tank gun
fire. Unable to give the maximum effective fire from his position, he,
upon his own initiative moved his gun across the street in the open, and
in the zone of enemy fire from which he could deliver more effective
fire on the enemy. An enemy anti-tank shell knocked him and his
assistant gunner from their gun, seriously wounding the assistant
gunner. Undaunted, and although still under heavy enemy small arms and
anti-tank gun fire, Private First Class Arnold crawled back to his gun,
placed it back in action and brought its fire to bear on the enemy,
silencing the anti-tank gun and delivering such accurate fire that his
supporting rifle platoon was enabled to successfully continue its
advance. Private First Class Arnold's heroic actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BENNETT, VERNON A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Vernon A. Bennett (657094), Private
First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for gallantry in action against an armed
enemy while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines,
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, by firing on an enemy bunker in order that
other landing craft could safely land. On the evening of 15 September
1950, on RED BEACH 1, Inchon, Korea, the landing boat in which Private
First Class Bennett came ashore landing next to an enemy bunker, and all
personnel were wounded with the exception of three men. Private First
Class Bennett, an assistant machine gunner, came ashore regardless of
the personal danger involved and set up his machine gun, without tripod,
and began to fire on the bunker, pinning the enemy down. Due to his
conspicuous gallantry, another boat was able to land troops who in turn
destroyed the bunker. Private First Class Bennett performed the above
action after having been painfully wounded by enemy gun fire. His
display of alertness and gallantry reflects great credit on himself and
the Naval Service.
Headquarters, X Corps, General Orders
No. 5 (September 27, 1950)
Home Town: South Bend, Washington
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Purple Heart
BENSON, KENNETH R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Kenneth R. Benson, Private First Class, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in connection
with operations against the enemy while serving as Rifleman, Company F,
Second Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division in Korea on 28
November 1950. The company was tasked with securing the Tokong Pass and
providing security along the road between Hagaru and Yudam- ni. Private
First Class Benson was manning a listening post during the early morning
hours with another Marine forward to the main line of defense when
Chinese soldiers attacked the company's hill position in regimental
strength. Private First Class Benson and the other Marine were returning
to the company's defense perimeter when an enemy hand grenade landed
near them. He picked it up and threw it back towards the enemy, but it
exploded wounding and temporarily blinding him. Unable to locate the
main line of defense, hand grenades, and mortar fire, he and the other
Marine manned a dangerously exposed position at the head of the ravine,
which led to the company's left flank and engaged the enemy. Although
unable to use his weapon because of temporary blindness, he continuously
reloaded the weapons of the other Marine to ensure accurate and
effective fire at the attacking enemy, ultimately stopping the seizure
of the top of Fox Hill. By his extraordinary heroism in the face of
extreme danger, Private First Class Benson reflected great credit upon
himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the
United States Naval Service.
BRENNAN, JAMES J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to James J. Brennan (1116751), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company in the
FIRST Marine Division, in Korea, on 30 November 1950. Private First
Class Brennan, serving as a Squad Leader, was assigned the mission of
deploying his squad along a prominent terrain feature in hasty defensive
positions. While moving his squad into position, he was subjected to
heavy enemy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire, from enemy
positions approximately one hundred yards to the front of his defensive
sector. Fearlessly exposing himself to direct enemy fire, he
successfully positioned his squad and moved among them, directing their
effective return fire and successfully repelled several attempted enemy
attacks throughout the remainder of the night. In the early morning
hours, when ordered to break contact and rejoin his company, he withdrew
his squad, while under heavy enemy fire, to cover offered by terrain.
While en route to his objective, a member of his squad was wounded by
enemy fire and fell in an exposed position. With complete disregard for
his own personal safety, he ran, in the face of enemy fire, to the
wounded Marine, picked him up and carried him to a covered position. His
leadership, initiative and actions were an inspiration to all members of
his squad and undoubtedly saved the wounded Marine from receiving
additional wounds. Private First Class Brennan's heroic actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BRUMAGEN, ARTHUR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Arthur Brumagen (669182), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving
with Company I, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division
(Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7
November 1952. Although painfully wounded during the initial phase of an
assault against an enemy hill, Corporal Brumagen unhesitatingly assumed
command of the unit when the platoon commander was critically wounded
and fearlessly led his men through devastating hostile small-arms and
grenade fire to the crest of the hill. When ordered to withdraw, he
skillfully organized the remaining members of his group, supervised the
evacuation of the wounded and covered their withdrawal. Remaining in the
area to assure that none of his men had been unknowingly left behind, he
searched the entire sector before rejoining the platoon and refused
medical treatment until he reached the aid station. By his indomitable
fighting spirit, courageous initiative and selfless devotion to duty,
Corporal Brumagen served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD: 1st Marine Division,
Serial 3908
Born: at Richmond, Kentucky
Home Town: Richmond, Kentucky
BULGER, THOMAS E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Thomas E. Bulger (0-50747), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company in Korea,
on 31 January 1953. Serving as Platoon Commander of a reinforced unit
during a raid against a strongly defended enemy position, First
Lieutenant Bulger displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion
to duty. During the advance, he fearlessly directed the assault in the
face of heavy enemy resistance and expressed complete disregard for his
personal safety in order to maintain the forward momentum. Advancing
with the forward elements of the assault force, he moved through the
intense fire of enemy machine guns, small arms and grenades. As he
neared the crest of the objective, he was blown back by the detonation
of a satchel charge thrown at him from the hostile trenches. Despite
this and the intensified enemy fire, he continued the assault and
maintained contact with the enemy for approximately fifty-five minutes.
Having inflicted heavy casualties on the entrenched enemy he skillfully
disengaged his unit and withdrew to friendly lines. First Lieutenant
Bulger's gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all
who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Staten Island, New York
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)
CASTLEBERRY, WARREN E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Warren E. Castleberry (1190604), Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 October 1952.
Serving as an anti-tank assault Squad Leader, Corporal Castleberry
displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty during an
enemy attack on the company position. Upon seeing a group of wounded
Marines, under direct enemy machine gun fire, he voluntarily led a
three-man rescue team to their aid. After advancing through devastating
hostile fire to the position, he found it impossible to evacuate the
casualties because of the concentrated enemy fire in the area.
Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he positioned
himself in an exposed area to draw the enemy fire and enabled the rescue
team to remove the wounded Marines. He remained in his position,
delivering rifle fire on the enemy machine gun emplacements, until the
casualties had been evacuated. Corporal Castleberry's gallant and
courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
CLARK, ALBERT L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Albert L. Clark (0-11852), Major, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Night Fighter Squadron during the
withdrawal from Hagaru-ri, on 7 November 1950. As a Flight Leader of a
night fighter flight in the vicinity of Hagaru-ri, in the early morning
of 7 December 1950, Major Clark reported into the close air support
control center, which was operating from radio jeeps in the 1st Marine
Division convoy. At the time he reported into the control center, the
convoy had been stopped by a well developed enemy roadblock. This
roadblock was covered by mortar and machine gun fire interdicting the
vehicles of the convoy. When acquainted with the extremely hazardous
terrain conditions existing in the area, he executed four night close
air support attacks, which successfully interdicted enemy troops moving
up on the convoy. These troops moved to within thirty yards of the
vehicles on the road. The extremely high degree of professional skill,
determination, and courage possessed by Major Clark permitted him to
press these night air attacks to within a distance of fifty yards of the
friendly convoy. His personal courage, determination, outstanding
leadership, and heroic actions throughout were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CONLIN, HENRY J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Henry J. Conlin (0-53541), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 5 July 1952. Second
Lieutenant Conlin was in command of approximately thirty men occupying
an outpost forward of the main line of resistance. During the night the
outpost was assaulted by a reinforced enemy company supported by
artillery, mortar and heavy machine gun fire. As the enemy troops
penetrated the position he led his men in repelling the assault with
small arms fire and hand grenades at close range. He personally
accounted for two of the twenty-eight enemy killed during the action,
and directed mortar and artillery fire in close support of the
surrounded outpost, preventing the enemy from reorganizing for a second
assault. At one point during the night's action he received word that a
portion of his position had been overrun. Without regard for personal
safety he immediately moved to that part of the position, exposing
himself all the way to enemy fire, and reorganized his force. When this
had been accomplished he led his corpsman back over the same ground to
care for the casualties. His expert leadership and selfless devotion to
duty were an inspiration to all the men under his command. Second
Lieutenant Conlin's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CONSTANTINE, EDWARD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Edward L. Constantine (0-44992), First
Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, Second
Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea.
On 29 November 1950, the enemy attacked in battalion strength with one
company in the assault against his platoon. Lieutenant Constantine's
adjacent platoon was partially overrun. The enemy was actually in
physical contact with the forward positions of his plat one. Lieutenant
Constantine, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, moved
among his fire teams and squads to supervise and direct their fire. By
his own heroic efforts, the attack against his position was repulsed
with terrific loss to the enemy in men and material. The gallantry
displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Constantine reflects great
credit upon himself and the military service.
Headquarters, X Corps, General Orders
No. 73 (April 13, 1951)
COOPER, CHARLES G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Charles G. Cooper (0-50749), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a
Platoon Leader of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST
Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces
in Korea on 17 June 1951. Participating in an assault against an enemy
hill position when his platoon was pinned down by devastating small-arms
and automatic-weapons fire from a strongly entrenched hostile position,
Second Lieutenant Cooper, after calling for and receiving a friendly air
strike and artillery fire support, attempted to move his platoon forward
but was again pinned down by fire from the same enemy position. With the
advance of the entire company halted, he unhesitatingly charged through
the hail of bullets and grenades with one other Marine and, upon
reaching the enemy emplacement, hurled grenades through the embrasure,
killing the occupants and silencing the fire. Severely wounded while
engaged in this hazardous undertaking, Second Lieutenant Cooper, by his
outstanding bravery and daring initiative, was directly instrumental in
the seizure of the company's objective and served to inspire all who
observed him. His heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
COOPER, LEON H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Leon H. Cooper (617603), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company in the FIRST Marine
Division, in Korea, on 30 October 1951. Serving as Leader of a Rifle
Squad, Sergeant Cooper displayed exceptional courage and initiative in
leading his men on a daring patrol raid deep into enemy territory.
Expertly maneuvering his squad in among strong enemy entrenchments, he
exposed himself fearlessly and with complete disregard for his own
personal safety to devastating enemy automatic weapons, small arms, and
hand grenade fire, to skillfully position his men to isolate a sector of
the enemy's fortifications, and then led the annihilation of the enemy
troops in his trap. During the vicious engagement he personally killed
ten of the enemy and wounded four with accurate rifle and hand grenade
fire, and then expertly disengaged and returned to friendly lines,
having killed sixty-five enemy, wounded thirteen, and destroyed
twenty-five enemy bunkers, sustaining only one minor casualty among his
men. His outstanding tactical ability and aggressive bravery were an
inspiration to all who observed him. Sergeant Cooper's heroic leadership
was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
COWIE, WILLIAM H., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William H. Cowie, Jr. (0-57121), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 July 1953. Serving
as a Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Cowie displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When he was ordered to
reinforce friendly elements on the main line of resistance, he exhibited
exceptional qualities of leadership as he skillfully led his platoon
forward and deployed it in the reinforcing position during an intense
hostile mortar and artillery barrage. Expressing complete disregard for
his personal safety, he courageously moved around the position
demonstrating remarkable resourcefulness under the murderous enemy fire.
His disregard for the hostile fire inspired his men to expose themselves
in order to expedite the occupation of the new positions. On three
separate occasions, he gallantly led a squad of men into enemy-held
trenches in order to evacuate wounded Marines. On each occasion it was
necessary to clear the enemy force from the position before the
evacuation could be effected. During these evacuation missions, he
killed at least six of the enemy in the extremely close fighting.
Although he suffered painful wounds during the last attack, he refused
evacuation and accepted only first aid treatment. Later in the night, he
skillfully called friendly mortar fire upon the enemy which resulted in
many casualties among the hostile force. Second Lieutenant Cowie's
gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit
served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CRAVEN, WILLIAM A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William A. Craven (0-41500), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of
the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 4 December 1950.
First Lieutenant Craven, serving as a Rifle Platoon Leader, was assigned
the mission of rescuing a platoon of Marine engineers who were
surrounded and cut off by the enemy in Sudong, Korea. He skillfully
deployed his platoon and personally led an assault on a commanding hill
infested with more than forty entrenched enemy troops. In the ensuing
action, at least six enemy troops were killed and the remainder routed
in disorder. This action enabled him to bring more effective fire to
bear on the enemy entrenched on adjacent hills. While the engineers were
clearing the area, he redeployed his platoon and repelled an enemy
counter-attack. His initiative and coolness under fire served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and were directly instrumental in
enabling the isolated Engineer platoon to move to safety with a minimum
of casualties. First Lieutenant Craven's heroic actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CULLUM, BILLY R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Billy R. Cullum (1297201), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 18 April 1953. Serving
as a rifleman, Private First Class Cullum displayed outstanding courage,
initiative and devotion to duty. He was point man in a five-man rescue
party in search of a casualty-ridden patrol that had been operating far
forward of the main line of resistance. Despite conflicting reports as
to the whereabouts of the stricken patrol, he demonstrated remarkable
skill in finding the stricken unit. Noticing that nearly all of the
members of the patrol were casualties, he immediately began
administering first aid to the wounded men. When he discovered that
several Marines of the patrol were missing, he courageously searched out
the surrounding area despite the risk of possible capture or death.
After learning that the missing men were on their way back to the main
line of resistance, he volunteered to search for a second rescue party
that was unable to locate the stricken patrol. Expressing complete
disregard for his personal safety, he gallantly moved alone through the
darkness of no man's land, located the rescue party and guided them to
the patrol. During the evacuation of the injured men, he assisted in
carrying the wounded and their weapons. Private First Class Cullum's
gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit
served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CURLEY, JOHN T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John T. Curley (1331353), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 - 27 March 1953.
Serving as an automatic rifleman, Private First Class Curley displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. The unit of which
he was a member was pinned down by devastating hostile fire during a
counterattack on a vital enemy-held outpost position. Expressing
complete disregard for his personal safety, he courageously raced to the
forward elements of the unit to assist in gaining fire superiority over
the enemy. Several times when he exhausted his ammunition, he obtained
more from his injured comrades and continued firing. For a period of
five and a half hours, he fearlessly exposed himself to intense enemy
fire in order to bring his weapon to bear with deadly accuracy. When his
unit was relieved from the action, he remained to assist in the
evacuation of the wounded and refused to leave the area until he was
assured that all of his comrades had been removed to safety. He withdrew
from the scene of action in the rear guard in order to cover the unit
with his weapon. Private First Class Curley's gallant and courageously
actions together with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to
all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
DALEY, RICHARD F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Richard F. Daley (0-56483), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, from 24 to 27 July 1953.
Serving as a Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Daley displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the enemy
launched vicious attacks on friendly positions, he expressed complete
disregard for his personal safety by moving from one position to another
in order to check the condition and welfare of his men. Despite
devastating hostile mortar and artillery barrages, he gallantly
continued to shout words of encouragement to his men and aid in the
evacuation of the wounded. One night, he courageously led his men in a
daring counterattack on a portion of friendly lines held by hostile
troops. Exhibiting remarkable resourcefulness during the fierce
encounter, he personally killed ten enemy and inflicted considerable
damage on hostile equipment. When wire communications were severed by
murderous enemy mortar and artillery barrages, he skillfully directed
friendly mortar fire upon enemy installations and troop concentrations
by using radio communications. The extremely well directed fire caused
severe casualties and damage to hostile positions. His intrepid efforts
aided immeasurably in repelling the large-scale enemy attacks against
the position. Second Lieutenant Daley's indomitable spirit combined with
his gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
DAVIS, WILLIAM J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William J. Davis (0-49480), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while
serving a 60-mm. Mortar Section Commander of Company A, First Battalion,
Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), during operations
against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 and 3 November 1950. Quick
to act when his company was subjected to a strong hostile counterattack,
First Lieutenant Davis immediately advanced to a forward position under
intense enemy machine-gun, mortar and artillery fire and, remaining in
his exposed position, called and adjusted accurate and effective mortar
fire until the aggressors were repulsed thirty hours later. By his
aggressive and determined leadership, fortitude and cool courage in the
face of heavy odds, First Lieutenant Davis served as an inspiration to
all who observed him, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
SPOT AWARD: 1st Marine Division,
Serial 10643
Home Town: Lynn, Massachusetts
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)
DEEDS, ROBERT D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Robert D. Deeds (670763), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 23 September 1950. While his company
was advancing in the attack on Seoul, Korea, the right flank platoon was
pinned down by intense enemy small arms and machine gun fire from strong
enemy positions. Corporal Deeds, serving as a Fire Team Leader,
observing that his platoon could not move forward far enough to return
effective fire without suffering excessive casualties, fearlessly and
courageously moved forward alone and with his rifle fire and hand
grenades personally destroyed two emplacements. This action allowed his
fire team to advance and with well-directed fire and grenades, the fire
team destroyed the remaining enemy right flank positions, and materially
assisted the platoon in regaining the fire superiority and successfully
continuing the attack. Corporal Deeds' display of initiative and heroic
actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
DOOLEY, ORIN W., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Orin W. Dooley, Jr. (1168653), Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 March 1953. Serving
as a Squad Leader in a platoon that was defending an outpost position
forward of the main lines, Sergeant Dooley displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the outpost was subjected
to intensive artillery and mortar fire, followed immediately by a savage
enemy attack, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety
and moved about the position organizing the left flank after a partial
breakthrough by the enemy. Although constantly exposed to the heavy
enemy fire, he skillfully positioned additional men to reinforce the
flank area. When the Platoon Commander became a casualty, he
unhesitatingly assumed command of the supporting fire and directed it on
key enemy targets. He called for artillery on the position and again
jeopardized his own safety by moving through the area, warning and
positioning the Marines for the forth coming artillery fire. When the
friendly artillery fire had ceased, he fearlessly led his men in an
attack on the overrun center positions of the outpost and completely
routed the hostile forces. Sergeant Dooley's gallant and courageous
actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
DRAPER, RICHARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Richard Draper (1118501), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Rifle Company of the FIRST
Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 23 April 1951. Private First
Class Draper displayed outstanding qualities of courage and skill in the
performance of his duties. During repeated attacks by fanatical enemy
forces, he repeatedly exposed himself to small arms and machine gun fire
to carry ammunition up steep and mountainous terrain to the front line
platoons. Arriving in the platoon area on one such trip, he observed
that the platoon had been so depleted by casualties that no one was
available to provide covering fire necessary to move a number of
seriously wounded Marines through an exposed fire-swept area for
evacuation to the rear. Unhesitatingly, he took charge of the men who
were with him, and, moving three unmanned machine guns into a position
vulnerable to enemy small arms and grenade fire, put them in action and
delivered such a heavy and accurate volume of fire his wounded comrades
were able to be successfully evacuated. Private First Class Draper's
courageous actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
*DUNNE, CHARLES SHELBY (KIA)
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver
Star Medal (Posthumously) to Charles Shelby Dunne (0-43895), First
Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action against the enemy while serving with Battery D, Second
Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF,
attached to a Marine Infantry Company in Korea, on 27 June 1951. Serving
as an Artillery Forward Observer, First Lieutenant Dunne displayed
exceptional courage and initiative when the company was subjected to
devastating enemy mortar fire. Although he was painfully wounded early
in the barrage, he courageously refused to seek medical attention,
advancing fearlessly and with complete disregard for his own safety
through the heavy enemy fire to an exposed observation post in order to
ascertain the enemy's mortar locations. He then remained in his exposed
position and called in intense artillery fire which was so accurately
adjusted that the enemy mortars were silenced, and the company was
enabled to continue on its mission. His great personal bravery and
unswerving devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him.
First Lieutenant Dunne's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars
(Korea), 2@ Purple Hearts
*DUNNE, CHARLES SHELBY (KIA)
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star
in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to
Charles Shelby Dunne (0-43895), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while
serving with Battery D, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, attached to a Marine Infantry Company in Korea,
on 14 September 1951. While serving as an Artillery Forward Observer,
First Lieutenant Dunne exhibited exceptional initiative and outstanding
devotion to duty during an enemy counterattack. Noticing that an
adjacent platoon, whose leader had been wounded and evacuated, was
becoming disorganized and hard pressed, he immediately and fearlessly
left his position of relative safety to assume command of the platoon.
Quickly reorganizing the group and resupplying them with ammunition, he
actively led a successful defense of the position while continuing to
skillfully and calmly call in supporting fires. While thus engaged he
was hit by enemy fire, and fell mortally wounded, gallantly giving his
life for his country. His fearless leadership had so inspired the men of
the platoon that all subsequent attempts by the enemy to retake the
ground were hurled back. First Lieutenant Dunne's heroic actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars
(Korea), 2@ Purple Hearts
DURHAM, ROBERT S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Robert S. Durham (1324098), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 - 27 March 1953.
Serving as an automatic rifleman, Private First Class Durham displayed
outstanding courage, initiative, and devotion to duty. While advancing
in a counterattack against a vital enemy-held outpost, the unit was
subjected to intense hostile small arms, mortar and artillery fire. He
was the first man to reach the intermediate objective and when the foe
charged under the barrage, he courageously stood up and brought
devastating fire to bear on them, accounting for ten enemy killed. As
the action became more intense, he fearlessly continued to expose
himself in order to deliver accurate fire and hurl grenades. When given
the order to withdraw, he took up a position at the rear of the unit so
as to cover the evacuation of the many casualties. Private First Class
Durham's gallant and courageous actions together with his indomitable
spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
EASTMAN, THEODORE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Theodore Eastman (1241810), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 9 April 1953. Serving as
a machine gun squad leader, Private First Class Eastman displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was a member of
a unit defending a vital outpost far forward of the main line of
resistance when it was subjected to a savage enemy assault. Expressing
complete disregard for his personal safety, he courageously assisted his
section leader in delivering a deadly hail of fire on the hostile
troops. Although suffering intense pain as a result of wounds, he
gallantly remained at his position despite the devastating enemy mortar,
artillery and small arms fire falling around him. When the enemy
penetrated the outpost perimeter and began to move in on the position,
he dauntlessly removed the weapon from its tripod and fired from t he
hip, delivering such a large volume of murderous fire that the enemy was
driven from his position. Private First Class Eastman's gallant and
courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
ELLIOTT, BERT L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Bert L. Elliott (291533), Technical Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Weapons Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, at Hagaru-ri, Korea, on 28 and 29 November
1950. Technical Sergeant Elliott, regularly a heavy machine gun platoon
sergeant, was in command of 28 men forming the right flank of a
defensive line on a ridge, composed in whole of hastily assembled
segments of various Army and Marine units. Strong enemy forces fiercely
attacked the entire sector of this unit. Under pressure from enemy
mortars, small arms fire, and grenades, all the units withdrew down the
steep hill to his left flank, leaving this flank exposed. Realizing the
vital necessity of holding the remaining key feature, which commanded a
main part of the entire defense perimeter, Technical Sergeant Elliott
was determined to hold his position despite the exposed flank caused by
the withdrawal and the violent enemy fire. Without regard for his own
personal safety, he went up and down his lines, rallying his men with
encouraging words and urging the faltering ones to maintain their
positions. Technical Sergeant Elliott further supervised and personally
conducted the wounded from the hill and returned to his own position
while under intense mortar and artillery fire. He further exposed
himself to enemy fire and displayed a high degree of professional skill
by calmly calling for, and observing artillery and mortar fire, which
inflicted numerous casualties upon the enemy. The following morning the
defense perimeter was shortened and his left flank was secured with a
unit of fifty men. During the night his left flank was again exposed,
due to extremely heavy enemy fire which forced members of that flank to
withdraw to new positions. With his left flank exposed, he continued to
expose himself without regard for his personal safety as he skillfully
called for mortar and artillery fire and threw numerous hand grenades to
prevent enemy from occupying high ground to the front. His brilliant
leadership and undaunted devotion to duty were a great inspiration to
his command and were directly responsible for their remaining in
position. Technical Sergeant Elliott's heroic actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
EWERS, NORMAN G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Norman G. Ewers (0-28152), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy, while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron at Hongchon,
Korea, on 18 May 1951. As pilot of an unarmed helicopter, Captain Ewers
flew into the midst of heavy front line concentrations of enemy troops
to rescue a downed American pilot. When Captain Ewers was informed of
the location of the downed airman, he knew he was taking a great
personal risk in attempting to save him. With complete disregard for his
own personal safety, he volunteered his services for this mission of
mercy. Upon approaching the area of the downed pilot, Captain Ewers
received intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire, which
damaged his radio. With no means of communications, Captain Ewers
continued the search for the downed pilot and located him with the
assistance of friendly fighter cover. The enemy, by this time, were
within a hundred yards of the downed airman. Unhesitantly, Captain Ewers
flew his unarmed aircraft into the midst of the enemy, under continuous
fire, and rescued the downed airman. Captain Ewers' conspicuous
gallantry, initiative, and tenacious desire to save the life of the
downed pilot is exemplary and is in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Tujungai, California
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)
FICHTER, JOHN A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John A. Fichter (355501), Staff Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 21 September 1950.
During the attack by his company a fire fight developed with a strong
enemy force who were occupying well dug in and camouflaged positions.
Staff Sergeant Fichter, serving as a Platoon Sergeant, fearlessly and
courageously led a fire team in an assault on the enemy positions but
was driven back by numerically superior enemy forces. As the fire
increased the company sought cover and called for friendly tank support.
Staff Sergeant Fichter without regard for his own personal safety,
courageously exposed himself and personally led the tanks forward, and
by means of the tank-infantry telephone, directed effective tank fire on
the enemy positions. By his courageous actions his company was
materially aided in being able to move to higher ground and regain the
fire superiority and continue the attack. Staff Sergeant Fichter's
display of initiative and heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
FILE, FRED L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Fred L. File (1138535), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy as a member of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF,
while serving with the FIRST Korean Marine Corps Regiment, in Korea, on
8 July 1951. Private First Class File displayed outstanding qualities of
skill and courage in the performance of his duties as chief of an
artillery forward observer team. When his unit, which was advancing
against a heavily fortified enemy position, was hit by a savage
counter-attack, it was forced to withdraw. As he moved to the rear with
his team, he noticed that the field telephone used to contact the
supporting artillery had been left behind. Completely ignoring the
savage enemy fire, he ran forward to within 100 yards of the advancing
enemy, retrieved the instrument, and returned unscathed to the new
position. Through his courageous efforts, communication with the
artillery was re-established, resulting in such a heavy volume of fire
against the enemy that their advance was halted and a counter-attack
mounted that completely routed them. Private First Class File's bravery
and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
FINNESSEY, JAMES F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to James F. Finnessey (1132612), Staff Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Tank Company of the FIRST
Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 17 August 1952. Serving as a
Tank Platoon Sergeant, Staff Sergeant Finnessey displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty during a reinforcing action far
forward of the main line of resistance. When a group of Marines on an
outpost position was ambushed by an enemy force, he was assigned the
mission of aiding in the relief. After driving the enemy soldiers off
the forward slope, he maneuvered his tank to within one hundred and
fifty yards of the entrenched enemy on the covered side and reverse
slope of the outpost. To increase maximum fire power, he expressed
complete disregard for his personal safety and exposed himself to the
intense enemy fire in order to employ his turret mounted anti-aircraft
machine gun. During the action, he personally killed nine of the enemy
soldiers and through his aggressive spirit, he served as an inspiration
to all who observed him. Staff Sergeant Finnessey's gallant and
courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
FLOOD, GEORGE G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to George G. Flood (0-50214), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Rifle Company of the FIRST
Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 11 March 1951. Second
Lieutenant Flood was leading his platoon up a steep and narrow approach
leading to a high heavily fortified ridge defended by a strong enemy
force, when the company was pinned down by a devastating hail of fire.
Unhesitatingly, he moved forward of the lines to reconnoiter, and,
placing his attached machine guns to give maximum supporting fires, led
his men in a charge against the enemy positions. As they neared the
emplacements, they were met by withering machine gun and grenade fire
and forced to take cover. Then, completely disregarding his own safety,
he charged the enemy bunkers alone, hurling a volley of hand grenades
which temporarily silenced their fire and enabled his platoon to renew
the assault and overrun the positions. Second Lieutenant Flood's
courageous actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
FOLMAR, JESSE G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Jesse G. Folmar (0-26438), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in aerial combat
against the enemy while serving with the FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in
Korea. On 10 September 1952, Captain Folmar led a two-plane flight of
Marine attack aircraft that had been directed to strike a concentration
of enemy troops near the town of Ch'Innamp'O, North Korea. As the flight
approached the target area the conventional propeller type aircraft were
suddenly attacked by eight hostile jet interceptors. Captain Folmar
immediately initiated effective defensive measures so that he and his
wingman could bring fire to bear on the enemy aircraft. Aggressively
turning inside one of the superior hostile jets, Captain Folmar
skillfully fired a burst from his guns that ripped into the side of the
jet, causing it to burst into flames. The enemy pilot, his clothing
ablaze, abandoned the flaming jet, which crashed into the Taedong
estuary. As Captain Folmar turned to ward off another attack his
aircraft was struck and critically damaged by enemy fire and he was
forced to parachute. The hostile jets continued to make firing runs as
he descended and landed in the water from which he was rescued by
friendly forces. Captain Folmar's courageous conduct in the face of the
enemy resulted in the complete destruction of a vastly superior hostile
aircraft and contributed substantially to the safe return of his
wingman. His heroic actions, outstanding airmanship and selfless
devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
FORD, JETT T., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Jett T. Ford, Jr. (0-53246), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine
Infantry Company in the FIRST Marine Division, in Korea, on 24 November
1952. Serving as a Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Ford displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. Upon learning that
a patrol of his unit was under attack by enemy forces, he voluntarily
led a reinforcing and evacuation group tot heir aid. After arriving at
the position, he went from man to man, moving the more seriously wounded
to the center of the perimeter and giving encouragement and aid to the
Marines. He directed and supervised the evacuation of the casualties as
rapidly as possible and called and adjusted friendly artillery and
mortar fire to protect the position. During this time, he was informed
of two Marines who were still unaccounted for and refused to return to
the outpost until he had conducted a thorough search for the missing
men. During the search, one enemy soldier was killed while attempting to
drag one of the Marine bodies away. After the successful completion of
the search, he held the patrol intact to remove all friendly and enemy
equipment and weapons. Only when daylight made his location untenable,
did he consent to return to the combat outpost. Second Lieutenant Ford's
inspiring leadership and aggressive spirit contributed materially to the
success achieved by the patrol and his gallant and courageous actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
FOSTER, JOHN P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John P. Foster (1151912), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 12 - 13 August 1952. Serving as a
Company Clerk, Corporal Foster displayed outstanding courage, initiative
and devotion to duty. While attacking an outpost position far forward of
the main line of resistance, a friendly unit was pinned down and
isolated by devastating enemy mortar and artillery fire. He volunteered
to organize teams of indigenous personnel and convey vitally needed
supplies to the stricken unit. Expressing complete disregard for his
personal safety, he dauntlessly advanced through the intense hostile
fire to deliver the sorely needed supplies. Throughout the night, he
continued to make trips on the average of one every twenty minutes in
order to make it possible for the friendly force he was supplying to
conduct operations for at least twenty-four hours. On return trips he
carried casualties to a point from which they could be safely evacuated.
After several of these trips, he was seriously and painfully wounded and
rendered temporarily deaf and blind. Upon recovery, he refused
evacuation and resumed his mission of supplying the isolated friendly
company. His initiative and determination in delivering supplies
undoubtedly saved the stricken unit and was instrumental in repulsing
the attacking hostile forces. Corporal Foster's gallant and courageous
actions together with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to
all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
FREITAS, JOSEPH L., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Joseph L. Freitas, Jr. (0-20266), Major, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron, in
Korea, on 14 September 1952. Serving as a Helicopter Pilot, Major
Freitas displayed outstanding courage, initiative and professional
skill. Upon receiving an urgent request for a helicopter evacuation for
a critically wounded Marine, he unhesitatingly left the main squadron
base and flew through total darkness and intense fog to a position
directly over the helicopter strip at the battalion command post.
Despite the lack of communications and the increasing density of the
fog, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and guided
the helicopter to the invisible strip with only two ordinary flashlights
as beacons. After receiving the casualty, he again took off in the fog
and successfully evacuated the near-dead Marine. Major Freitas' gallant
and courageous actions were instrumental in saving the man's life and
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
GARCIA, RUDY G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Rudy G. Garcia (659652), Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with the FIRST Marine Division,
FMF, in the Haktong River sector in Korea, on 3 September 1950. On this
date, Private First Class Garcia, a Browning Automatic Rifleman, noticed
a fire burning upon the forward part of a friendly tank. With complete
disregard for his personal safety Private First Class Garcia exposed
himself to heavy enemy sniper, machinegun, and anti-tank fire to warn
the crew of the tank. While contacting the crew on the infantry phone in
the rear of the tank, he was hit by enemy fire and wounded in the arm
and hand. As a result of his heroic action the tank crew was able to
extinguish the fire and the tank remained in action. The gallantry
displayed by Private First Class Garcia reflects great credit upon
himself and the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, EUSAK, General Orders
162 (November 8, 1950)
Home Town: Missouri
GARCIA-MORALES, RUBEN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Ruben Garcia-Morales (1259946), Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of
the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 11 January 1953. Serving as
a rifleman, Private First Class Garcia-Morales displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty during an assault on a strongly
defended enemy hill position. Before the squad reached the enemy
trenchline, it was pinned down by intense automatic weapons and hand
grenade fire. In order to prevent complete annihilation of his comrades,
he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and
single-handedly advanced up the fire-swept slope. Although he was
repeatedly forced back by the grenade fire, he eventually reached the
trenchline and silence the enemy machine gun with two grenades. Despite
the continued enemy fire, he remained in his hazardous position until he
had covered the squad's withdrawal from the hill. Private First Class
Garcia-Morales' gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration
to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
GARST, MARSHALL L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Marshall L. Garst (1101836), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Tank Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, from 20 to 24 July 1953. Serving as a
Tank Commander, Sergeant Garst displayed outstanding courage, initiative
and devotion to duty. He was assigned the difficult and hazardous
mission of firing supporting fire for two Infantry Companies that were
attacking two vital outpost positions located far forward of the main
line of resistance. His tank firing position was located on the forward
slope of a hill and was subjected to extremely heavy hostile fire from
close range. While delivering fire at point-blank range, the tank
suffered a power failure due to run down batteries. Expressing complete
disregard for his personal safety, he gallantly climbed out of his
vehicle ignoring the murderous enemy artillery fire in order to
hand-crank the tank's auxiliary generator which enabled him to charge
the vehicle's batteries, start the engine and maintain communication and
mobility. On another occasion, he was moving his tank into firing
position when one of several direct hits knocked one of the tank's
tracks partially off. Demonstrating remarkable resourcefulness under the
deadly hostile fire and aware that the enemy had zeroed in on his
vehicle, he courageously dismounted from his tank and guided the vehicle
back on its track. During his exposure to the intense enemy fire, he was
painfully wounded. As the tank was proceeding, it again became disabled
and had to request aid. When two retriever tanks arrived, he refused to
be evacuated and insisted on taking one of the vehicles into the firing
position where he was able to deliver a large volume of devastating fire
upon the attacking enemy. Throughout the fierce action, he was
instrumental in inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy that was
entrenched on the outpost positions. Sergeant Garst's gallant and
courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
GASS, GEORGE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to George H. Gass (1256257), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division, FMF, in Korea, on 26 - 27 March 1953. Serving as a fire team
leader, Corporal Gass displayed outstanding courage, initiative and
devotion to duty. When his fire team reached the intermediate trenches
en route to counterattack a vital enemy held outpost, the unit became
pinned down by devastating enemy small arms, mortar and artillery fire.
Although his helmet and weapon were blown from him during the initial
barrage, he courageously moved about the area evacuating his wounded
comrades. As he raced about the devastated area throwing grenades at the
foe, he shouted words of encouragement to the men and skillfully
directed their fire. Although painfully wounded, he continued to direct
the evacuation of his injured comrades until he himself was finally
taken from the position. Corporal Gass' gallant and courageous actions
combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
GATZ, FRANK A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Frank A. Gatz (11501121), Staff Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Tank Company of the FIRST
Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, from 24 to 27 July 1953. Serving
as a Tank Commander, Staff Sergeant Gatz displayed outstanding courage,
initiative and devotion to duty. When the enemy launched a vicious
attack against a friendly position, his vehicle was surrounded and
physically assaulted by hostile troops. Ignoring the dangers involved,
he unhesitatingly called fire upon his own position in an attempt to
halt the savage assault. He gallantly held his isolated position and
continued to deliver deadly accurate fire upon the onrushing enemy
troops. His efforts aided immeasurably in repelling the tenacious enemy.
Later, despite full knowledge that an enemy attack was impending, he
fearlessly volunteered to take his vehicle to the aid of two disabled
tanks located on the same strategic position where his vehicle had been
assaulted two nights before. Upon arrival at the position, he expressed
complete disregard for his personal safety and courageously dismounted
from his tank under a murderous hail of hostile mortar and artillery
fire in order to attach towing cables to the disabled vehicles. After he
had ground guided the disabled tanks to a position of safety, he moved
his tank into firing position and proceeded to deliver devastating fire
upon the attacking enemy. When the enemy again surrounded his tank, he
regained complete control of the situation and dauntlessly directed
friendly artillery and mortar fire as well as flares and other tank fire
upon his own position. When the savagely assaulting enemy attempted to
climb inside his tank, he exhibited remarkable courage as he opened one
of the tank's hatches and hurled grenades at the hostile troops, thereby
dispersing them. Staff Sergeant Gatz' gallant and courageous actions
combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
GEREVICS, EDWARD J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Edward J. Gerevics (1136720), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 29 May 1951. Serving as a
rifleman in a rifle platoon, Private First Class Gerevics was moving
with the company in the assault of a series of heavily defended enemy
positions when the unit was subjected to an intense enemy mortar
barrage, causing many casualties. Courageously volunteering to man a
machine gun when he learned that its crew had all been wounded, he
fearlessly exposed himself to devastating enemy fire during the ensuing
action to pour a large volume of accurate fire on enemy positions.
Although he suffered a painful wound in the hand, he refused medical
attention, continuing to give heavy supporting fire to the assaulting
elements, pinning the enemy down an enabling his comrades to seize their
objectives with a minimum of casualties. Only after the successful
completion of his mission did he seek medical treatment for his wound.
Private First Class Gerevicks' outstanding devotion to duty and heroic
actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
GILLILAND, HAROLD H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Harold H. Gilliland (1117207), Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Amphibian Tractor
Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 24
December 1950. Serving as a crew chief of an amphibian tractor, Corporal
Gilliland was assigned the mission of evacuating military personnel and
material from Pink Beach at Hungnam, Korea. Upon the explosion of a
nearby ammunition dump which severely wounded Corporal Gilliland, he
courageously and with complete disregard for his own safety removed from
several disabled tractors four wounded Marines. He then evacuated the
wounded to the hospital ship refusing treatment for his own wounds until
returning to his own organization. Corporal Gilliland's heroic actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
GILWEE, WILLIAM J., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William J. Gilwee, Jr. (0-53548), First Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company
of the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 23 December 1952.
Serving as a Platoon Commander, First Lieutenant Gilwee displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While leading a
combat patrol forward of the main line of resistance, he established
contact with the enemy and was subjected to a devastating barrage of
mortar and small arms fire. Although painfully wounded almost
immediately he refused treatment and attempted to call friendly
supporting fires on the enemy weapons. Again he was wounded and as a
result of the action, several of his men had also become casualties.
Despite the extreme pain resulting from his wounds, he ordered and
directed the tactical withdrawal under fire and personally remained
behind until he had assured himself that all of his men were on their
way to the main lines. When the patrol reached the main line of
resistance, he made certain that t he wounded men were given immediate
treatment before he would accept personal aid. First Lieutenant Gilwee's
gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
GLADU, JOHN A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John A. Gladu (1224687), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company in the
FIRST Marine Division, in Korea, on 4 - 5 September 1952. Serving as a
Squad Leader on a combat outpost, Private First Class Gladu displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the position
was subjected to intense enemy artillery and mortar fire followed by two
ruthless enemy ground attacks, he expressed complete disregard for his
personal safety and moved about the position firing on the enemy and
throwing hand grenades. He shouted words of encouragement to his
comrades and fearlessly exposed himself to the assaulting troops, in
order to deliver covering fire to enable a friendly listening post, cut
off by the attack, to return to the perimeter of defense. As the enemy
artillery and mortar fire increased in intensity, he unhesitatingly
crawled through the blanketing fire to help a critically wounded Marine.
Private First Class Gladu's selfless act was instrumental in saving his
comrade's life and his gallant and courageous actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
GLATZ, GEORGE J., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to George J. Glatz, Jr. (557470), Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Rifle Company of the FIRST
Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Northeastern Korea, on 9 December 1950.
As a Squad Leader in a Rifle Platoon, Sergeant Glatz was assigned the
mission of assaulting and seizing a sector of commanding ground
overlooking the Main Supply Route near Koto-ri, Korea, which was
defended in strength by well-entrenched Chinese Communist enemy forces.
With a high degree of courage and skill, he led his men up the face of
the treacherous, snow-covered approaches against fierce enemy grenade,
rifle and machine gun fire. Although suffering ill effects of extreme
cold and prolonged exposure under extremely adverse combat conditions
and greatly out numbered by enemy forces, Sergeant Glatz with his
depleted squad of only six men repeatedly assaulted, seized and
destroyed four heavy machine gun emplacements, killing or capturing more
than twenty-five of the enemy. He personally led each assault,
skillfully maneuvering his men over the precipitous snow-covered
approaches, reorganizing and rallying his men after each assault. The
success of his mission contributed materially to the safe withdrawal of
the Division elements from the Koto-ri area. Sergeant Glatz's heroic
actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
GOLDSBY, JAMES A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to James A. Goldsby (566673), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 6 June 1951. Serving as Platoon
Sergeant of a Rifle Platoon, Sergeant Goldsby was moving with the
platoon in the attack of a heavily fortified enemy hill position when
the unit was subjected to withering enemy automatic weapons and small
arms fire, causing several casualties, including the Platoon Commander.
Unhesitatingly assuming command, and despite the fact that he himself
had been painfully wounded, he skillfully reorganized the platoon and
led it aggressively forward through the heavy fire and routed the
entrenched enemy. His initiative and courageous leadership were an
inspiration to all who observed him, and aided materially in the success
achieved by the company. Sergeant Goldsby's inspiring and heroic actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
GOODWIN, DORRIS L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Dorris L. Goodwin (1172347), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 6 October 1952. Serving
as an automatic rifleman, Private First Class Goodwin displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was a member of
the defending force on an outpost far forward of the main line of
resistance, when the enemy launched a determined assault accompanied by
a devastating barrage of mortar and artillery fire. As the enemy troops
neared the position, he found that only he and one other Marine were
left to defend the left flank, but with complete disregard for his
personal safety, he moved forward to an exposed position from which he
delivered deadly fire on the advancing foe. As the attackers entered the
friendly trenches and attempted to move through the position, he
unhesitatingly moved to more exposed areas and continued to sweep the
enemy with killing fire until he forced them to abandon their assault.
Private First Class Goodwin's stamina and aggressiveness served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and his gallant and courageous
actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
GRAY, HAROLD Z.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Harold Z. Gray (0-38165), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a
carrier-based Marine attack squadron in Korea. On 24 February 1953,
Captain Gray participated in the rescue of a downed Marine aviator who
was surrounded by enemy troops deep in hostile territory. With complete
disregard for his own safety, Captain Gray conducted numerous daring
minimum altitude strafing assaults, intentionally drawing the heavy
hostile fire away from the downed pilot. Although his own aircraft was
severely damaged by enemy fire, he continued to skillfully maneuver his
aircraft at low level through the intense and accurate barrages of
anti-aircraft fire, and succeeded, on several occasions, in completely
suppressing all ground fire directed at the downed aviator. After
expending his remaining ordnance, Captain Gray, ignoring the battle
damage to his aircraft, conducted repeated dummy strafing runs at the
enemy positions despite the increasingly accurate fire that was bursting
all around his aircraft. Dangerously low on fuel, he remained in the
area until relieved by another flight of Marine attack aircraft. His
heroic actions in subjecting himself repeatedly to hostile fire and his
exemplary initiative were responsible for the success of a mission that
saved the life of a fellow Marine and inflicted heavy enemy casualties.
Captain Gray's courageous conduct, superb airmanship and steadfast
devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
HAFFEY, EUGENE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Eugene H. Haffey (0-17254), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving
as Commanding Officer of Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines,
FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor
forces in Korea from 18 January to 2 June 1951. With his company
assigned the mission of attacking and seizing a heavily defended and
well-fortified enemy position in the vicinity of Hwachon on 28 May,
Captain Haffey expertly directed a brilliantly executed attack to
overcome all hostile resistance despite constant small-arms, machine-gun
and mortar fire. After seizing the assigned objective, he promptly
reorganized his company and continued to hold the position against
numerically superior counterattacks throughout the night and early
morning. By his determined and inspiring leadership, bold tactics and
superb courage in the face of heavy odds, Captain Haffey contributed
materially to the rapid and successful accomplishment of his company's
missions throughout this period of intensive combat and upheld the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, 1st Marine Division,
Serial 23888
HAKALA, EDWIN W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Edwin W. Hakala (0-49700), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Artillery Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 10 June 1951. First Lieutenant
Hakala, serving as a forward observer attached to a Marine Infantry
Company, displayed outstanding skill, courage and initiative in the
performance of his duties. The company to which he was attached was
halted momentarily by rigid resistance from a fanatically determined
enemy during an assault. Moving with the forward elements of the
company, he was painfully wounded by enemy mortar fragments, but
steadfastly refusing evacuation, he continued in the attack. He
fearlessly called artillery fire on the enemy strong points so
effectively that the attacking company was able to seize its objective
despite the fact it was fiercely defended by an estimated enemy
battalion. His aggressiveness and high professional skill served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and contributed materially to the
success achieved by the company. First Lieutenant Hakala's heroic
actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
HALL, EUGENE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Eugene Hall (1295044), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 28 March 1953. Serving as an
ammunition carrier, Private First Class Hall displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty. Although the mortar section
with which he was serving had not been committed to action, he assisted
in treating and evacuating the wounded Marines. Seriously wounded, he
courageously continued to administer aid to his injured comrades.
Weakened as a result of his wounds, he personally carried an unconscious
and wounded man from an outpost position located far forward of the main
line of resistance back to the safety of the front lines. When the
relief of the company was finally effected, his wounds required
immediate attention and he was evacuated. Private First Class Hall's
gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit
served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HANLON, EDMUND W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Edmund W. Hanlon (0-49703), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 28 November 1950. Second
Lieutenant Hanlon was serving as a rifle platoon commander when his
sector of the defense line was attacked by a numerically superior enemy
force employing small arms, machine guns, grenades and mortars. During
the entire engagement, he fearlessly exposed himself to enemy fire to
move among his men directing and supervising their accurate and
effective fire. When the exchange of fire became point blank and the
enemy had penetrated a portion of his position, with complete disregard
for his own personal safety and in the face of enemy fire, he moved
among his platoon's front, to its flanks and along its rear encouraging
his men to greater efforts. On one occasion, he personally engaged the
enemy with his sub-machine gun and killed seventeen and wounded many
others. His display of leadership and initiative were an inspiration to
all members of his platoon and materially contributed to the successful
repelling of the enemy attack. Second Lieutenant Hanlon's heroic actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
HARTER, GEORGE F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to George F. Harter (1095182), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine
Division, FMF, in Korea, on 17 May 1951. Corporal Harter, a rifleman,
was manning a position in the company defensive perimeter when the enemy
launched a fanatical attack with overwhelming numbers. Completely
ignoring the withering hail of small arms and machine gun fire, he
repeatedly exposed himself to fire accurate volleys with his rifle,
killing or wounding many of the enemy who were attempting to overrun his
sector. When his squad was taken under heavy fire by an enemy machine
gun, he and another member of the squad left their foxholes and fiercely
assaulted it, killing the crew and capturing the weapon. Corporal
Harter's courageous actions contributed materially to the successful
repulse of the enemy attack, and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HELGESON, WILLIAM A., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to William A. Helgeson, Jr. (1117913),
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the FIRST
Marine Division, FMF, near Taebong-ni, Korea, on 17 August 1950. On this
date, during the course of an attack, Private First Class Helgeson's
platoon leader became a casualty and he, upon his own initiative,
secured the platoon commander's radio and with complete disregard for
his own personal safety, proceeded to request and direct mortar fire
upon enemy machinegun positions. He continuously relayed messages to
other units of his company from higher authority. During this time
Private First Class Helgeson also directed the evacuation of the wounded
men in his area. Although he was in an exposed position under direct
enemy machinegun and mortar fire he did not leave his post until ordered
to do so. The gallantry displayed by Private First Class Helgeson
reflects credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, EUSAK, General Orders
162 (November 8, 1950)
Home Town: Texas
HENDERSON, CURTIS R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Curtis R. Henderson (661679), Private
First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for gallantry in action while serving
with Company F, FIRST Marine Division, FMF, by carrying ammunition
through heavy gun fire to a gun position. On 21 September 1950, Private
First Class Henderson, under extreme fire, carried ammunition to a BAR
gun position, exposing himself to heavy enemy fire. Upon reaching the
BAR's position Private First Class Henderson found the gunner wounded
and manned the BAR himself to assist in destroying of an enemy machine
gun unit on the extreme right front of his battalion. Private First
Class Henderson received shrapnel wounds in the hand. His display of
gallantry reflects great credit on himself and the Naval Service.
Headquarters, X Corps, General Orders
No. 5 (September 27, 1950)
Home Town: Wilmington, Delaware
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Purple Heart
HENRY, JOHN O.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John O. Henry (1043046), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 27 November 1950. Serving as leader
of a machine gun section, Sergeant Henry displayed outstanding courage
and initiative in the performance of his duties when the company was
attacked during hours of darkness by a large enemy force. Exposing
himself without regard for his personal safety to devastating enemy
automatic weapons, hand grenade, and small arms fire, he fearlessly
moved through the position during the vicious attack to encourage his
men and direct their fires. When the enemy managed to reach to within a
few yards of his guns, he courageously remained in exposed positions to
beat them back, employing hand grenades and his rifle with telling
effect. Throughout the night-long attack he refused to seek safety for
himself, continuing steadfastly to direct the defense of his sector, and
ultimately routing the enemy with heavy losses. His inspiring leadership
and outstanding devotion to duty aided immeasurably in the successful
defense of the strategic ground. Sergeant Henry's heroic actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HEPLER, ROBERT D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Robert D. Hepler (647176), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 6 December 1950. Sergeant Hepler,
serving as a machine gun squad leader, had his squad positioned on an
icy snow-covered ridge when the company's position was assaulted by
approximately a battalion of enemy forces near his position. The enemy
placed two 60-mm. mortars and one light machine gun into support of
their attack and began firing. Due to a small rise in ground in front of
his machine gun, the enemy was masked from the fire of his gun. On his
own initiative, he crawled through the snow under heavy automatic and
small arms fire to the rise of ground in enemy territory. Reaching this
vantage point, he stood up and sprayed the enemy mortar and machine gun
positions with his sub-machine gun, thus neutralizing the enemy
positions. Returning to his squad through constant enemy small arms fire
to replenish his ammunition and displace the machine gun, he enemy
machine gun once again commenced firing. He returned over the same enemy
fire-swept area and single-handedly put the enemy machine gun completely
out of action. His outstanding display of initiative and courageous
leadership, without regard for his own personal safety, inspired all who
observed him and materially aided in the defense of his company's
position. Sergeant Hepler's heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HORGAN, RAYMOND M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Raymond M. Horgan (1116447), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Artillery Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 29 November 1950.
Private First Class Horgan was a member of a provisional infantry
platoon which had been ordered to reinforce a Marine Infantry Company in
assaulting and securing Hill 1449 near Hagaru-ri, Korea. When a machine
gun on the enemy side of the crest of the hill was captured and being
used to place accurate fire on the enemy, the gun developed a stoppage
and seven of the nine Marines protecting the gun were wounded. Despite
the fact that the machine gun was subjected to heavy enemy small arms,
machine gun and mortar fire and he had no previous experience as a
machine gunner, Private First Class Horgan voluntarily exposed himself
to the intense enemy fire and assumed the duties as gunner. After
clearing the stoppage in the gun, he remained in the exposed position
and placed accurate and effective fire on the numerically superior enemy
throughout four coordinated enemy attacks, inflicting many casualties
among the enemy. Despite the sub-zero temperatures and the heavy enemy
fire, his actions were an inspiration to all who observed him and were
directly instrumental in denying the enemy the highest portion of the
hill thereby preventing the enemy from penetrating the defense
perimeter. Private First Class Horgan's heroic actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HOUGH, BRUCE B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Bruce B. Hough (563481), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 3 November 1950. Private
First Class Hough was acting as a mortar crewman when his position was
attacked by a large enemy force which was able to place a machine gun
within 25 yards of his position. Without regard for his own personal
safety and despite the intense enemy machine gun, small arms, and hand
grenade fire, he courageously charged the enemy position and succeeded
in destroying the enemy emplacement with hand grenades. He then
fearlessly took up an exposed position and placed such accurate and
devastating fire that his squad was able to regain fire superiority and
force the enemy to withdraw. His courageous and aggressive actions were
an inspiration to all men of his squad. Private First Class Hough's
heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
HRUSCHANKO, JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John Hruschanko (1071270), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Weapons Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 7 December 1950. Private
First Class Hruschanko, serving as an ammunition carrier in the assault
platoon of Weapons Company and while under concentrated enemy mortar and
small arms fire, although wounded, left his covered position to carry a
wounded Marine to his foxhole where he administered first aid. With
complete disregard for his own personal safety he refused medical
attention for himself, and upon learning that a machine gunner had
become a casualty, he courageously manned the machine gun and delivered
such accurate fire that the enemy was forced to seek cover, thereby
enabling his company to successfully withdraw to a more favorable
position. His actions throughout were an inspiration to all who observed
him, and materially aided his company in repulsing the enemy attack. His
heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
*HURSEY, JANS F. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver
Star Medal (Posthumously) to Jans F. Hursey (1072029), Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action while serving as a Rifleman in Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth
Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy aggressor forces
in Korea, on 23 September 1950. During his platoon's assault on a
heavily-fortified enemy position, Private First Class Hursey repeatedly
subjected himself to hostile fire in order to deliver more accurate and
effective fire upon an enemy machine-gun nest. Diverting the fire of the
hostile machine gun to his own exposed position to facilitate his
platoon's advance, he was mortally wounded by hostile fire. By his
courageous actions, he materially aided his platoon in maintaining fire
superiority and in successfully completing its assigned mission. His
fortitude, initiative and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the
highest credit upon Private First Class Hursey and the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: at Slidell, Louisiana
Home Town: Slidell, Louisiana
HUTCHINSON, WILLIAM E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William E. Hutchinson (0-51945), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 24 May 1952. Serving as
a Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Hutchinson displayed exceptional
courage and professional skill while participating in a combat patrol
While leading his platoon up the forward slope of the enemy position he
was wounded in the arm and leg by an exploding mine. Disregarding his
painful wounds and refusing medical attention, he continued to expose
himself to enemy fire in order to direct his platoon in the attack.
After the enemy had been routed he allowed a corpsman to treat his
wounds, but refused evacuation until he had directed the withdrawal of
his platoon to friendly lines. His leadership and selfless devotion to
duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Second Lieutenant
Hutchinson's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
IVERS, JOHN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John J. Ivers (654965), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 3 November 1950. As a Radio Operator
attached to a Rifle Company, Corporal Ivers has consistently performed
his duties in an outstanding manner, displaying at all times a high
degree of professional skill and courage. During darkness on 3 November
1950, Corporal Ivers was in position at the Company Command Post when it
was brought under heavy attack by enemy forces using small arms,
automatic weapons, grenades and mortars. Corporal Ivers turned his radio
over to another qualified operator and joined in the defense of the
Command Post. With absolute disregard for his safety, he continually
exposed himself to enemy fire in order to bring accurate fire to bear on
enemy positions. When a group of the enemy was discovered moving up a
covered route leading to high ground which overlooked the Command Post,
Corporal Ivers voluntarily and on his own initiative, collected all
available hand grenades and moved alone to the high ground in order to
intercept the enemy. During the battle he personally killed sixteen of
the enemy and destroyed one enemy machine gun. His daring and aggressive
action aided materially in the successful defense of the Command Post
and were a source of inspiration to all members of the Command Post.
Corporal Ivers' heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
JENKINS, DAVID C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to David C. Jenkins (331749), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 25 September 1950. Corporal Jenkins
was serving with a rifle platoon which was proceeding forward for the
attack as the advance guard of his company. Suddenly the platoon
received heavy enemy small arms and machine gun fire and was forced to
take cover. During the time the order was passed to withdraw, Corporal
Jenkins and a hospital corpsman were administering aid to two seriously
wounded Marines. Disregarding the order to withdraw, he and the hospital
corpsman fearlessly remained at the side of the two wounded Marines and
continued administering aid. They then protected them by firing their
own weapons until members of their platoon came forward and laid down a
smoke screen so that Corporal Jenkins and the hospital corpsman could
successfully evacuate the two wounded Marines. By this action, the
wounded Marines were materially aided in receiving medical attention
much earlier than would have otherwise been possible. Corporal Jenkins'
display of initiative and heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
JOHANSEN, PETER J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Peter J. Johansen (1099344), Staff Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Tank Company of the FIRST
Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 17 August 1952. Serving as a
Tank Section Leader, Staff Sergeant Johansen displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty during a reinforcing action far
forward of the main line of resistance. When a group of Marines on an
outpost position was ambushed by an enemy force, he was assigned the
mission of delivering close fire support for the infantry aiding in the
relief. When he saw the enemy reinforcing their positions, he maneuvered
his tank to within one hundred and fifty yards of the hostile troops. In
this area, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and
unhesitatingly exposed himself to the intense enemy artillery, mortar
and small arms fire in order to employ his turret mounted anti-aircraft
machine gun. During the action, he personally killed thirteen of the
enemy soldiers and through his aggressive spirit, he served as an
inspiration to all who observed him. Staff Sergeant Johansen's gallant
and courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
JOHNSON, EDMUND E., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Edmund E. Johnson, Jr. (0-56939), Second
Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company
of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 24 July 1953.
Serving as a Platoon commander, Second Lieutenant Johnson displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While his platoon
was supporting by direct fire an outpost position that was being
assaulted by the enemy, his main battery position was subjected to
murderous enemy mortar and artillery fire. Expressing complete disregard
for his personal safety, he gallantly exposed himself to the deadly
hostile fire in order to insure the expeditious evacuation of the
platoon's casualties and to check on the welfare of his men. Despite
having been twice thrown to the ground by the dangerously close
explosions of hostile shells, he courageously continued to tour his
position in order to keep close contact with his men, insure that the
automatic weapons were continuously manned, and that communications were
rapidly restored when disrupted. When a machine gunner became a casualty
and there was no replacement immediately available, he skillfully manned
the weapon and fired at targets of opportunity that were delivering fire
upon friendly positions. His intrepid efforts, indomitable spirit and
remarkable resourcefulness under fire served as an inspiration to all
who observed him. Second Lieutenant Johnson's gallant and courageous
actions combined with his determined aggressiveness were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
JOHNSON, HOMER E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Homer E. Johnson (0-52082), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 July 1952. Serving
as a leader of a combat patrol, Second Lieutenant Johnson exhibited
exceptional heroism and devotion to duty. After directing an assault
upon a strongly fortified enemy position, he learned that a member of
the patrol was missing. With no concern for his personal safety, he
exposed himself to enemy small-arms, grenade and mortar fire in an
effort to locate the man. Arriving back at the main line of resistance,
he immediately sought permission to lead a patrol back to the scene to
find the body. He fearlessly led the patrol to the area and located the
body. Before being able to carry the body back to friendly lines, the
patrol was subjected to intense enemy fire and forced to place the body
in a position which enabled another patrol to remove it the following
day. Second Lieutenant Johnson's selfless devotion to duty and intrepid
leadership were an inspiration to all who observed him. His heroic and
gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
JOHNSON, VICTOR E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Victor E. Johnson (0-34367), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Service Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Hagaru-ri, Korea, on the night of
29 to 30 November 1950. First Lieutenant Johnson, with his Division
Salvage Section, was occupying a hastily organized and lightly defended
sector of the Hagaru-ri perimeter which was being subjected to intense
enemy mortar fire. As the main enemy efforts developed, overrunning an
outpost a few yards in front of his lines, friendly troops came running
down the steep slopes leading to his position followed at a few feet by
enemy soldiers armed with automatic weapons and grenades. Despite the
heavy fire and darkness, First Lieutenant Johnson, completely
disregarding his own safety, stood by one of his sand-bagged gun
emplacements and identified the Marines until the last one had entered
the perimeter. Then, with skilled accuracy, he threw several grenades
into a closely following group of the enemy, silencing their automatic
weapons and averting a break-through. For a period of several hours, he
continued to direct the defense of his sub-sector. His constant
circulation among his men and inspiring display of outstanding courage
contributed materially toward enabling his platoon to successfully
defend their sub-sector of the perimeter. First Lieutenant Johnson's
heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
KRAUS, GERALD A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Gerald A. Kraus (669302), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, during the period 1
November 1950 to 1 December 1950. As a fire team leader of a rifle
squad, Private First Class Kraus continually performed his duties in an
outstanding and aggressive manner under conditions of extreme hardship.
On 26 November 1950, when his platoon, in the assault against a
numerically superior enemy force, was counterattacked fiercely from the
front and left flank, Private first Class Kraus, with utter disregard
for his personal safety, voluntarily and fearlessly charged forward in
the face of intense enemy fire and well into the enemy lines to rescue a
wounded Marine. In so doing, Private First Class Kraus, was painfully
wounded in the face. In spite of the fact that he was temporarily
blinded, he found his way back to his platoon, and brought the wounded
Marine back to safety. His courage, coolness, and fortitude was a great
inspiration to the officers and men of his entire company, and
undoubtedly saved the wounded Marine's life. Private First Class Kraus'
heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
LEE, CALVIN E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Calvin E. Lee (511010), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 8 December 1950. Staff Sergeant Lee
was the Platoon Sergeant of a rifle platoon which was spearheading a
drive along the road south of Koto-ri, Korea, when the forward elements
of his platoon were hit from three directions by heavy and accurate
enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire and were pinned down. With
complete disregard for his own personal safety, he left his covered
position and moved forward under heavy fire with his platoon leader to
reconnoiter an avenue of approach to the enemy position. Upon
encountering an enemy machine gun nest, he assisted his platoon leader
in knocking out the gun with hand grenades. Later in reconnaissance, the
platoon leader was killed and Staff Sergeant Lee was wounded. Despite
his wounds, he refused treatment and evacuation until the platoon was
reorganized and placed in charge of the adjacent platoon leader. His
coolness and courage under fire, stamina and fortitude, even though
wounded, were an inspiration to all members of his platoon. Staff
Sergeant Lee's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
LEISTER, ROBERT J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Robert J. Leister (0-55820), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company
of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, from 26 to 30 March
1953. Serving as a Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Leister
displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When
assigned the mission of reconnoitering and determining the enemy
strength of a friendly combat outpost that had been overrun by hostile
troops a few hours earlier, he expressed complete disregard for his
personal safety and skillfully maneuvered his platoon to within fifty
yards of the position. He proceeded to harass the enemy with grenades
and sniper fire and when he received no further instructions from the
main line of resistance, he, on his own initiative, decided to continue
the harassment until daybreak. Throughout the remaining hours of
darkness, he personally led small groups to within grenade range of the
hostile position and directed such effective fire that the enemy could
not prepare adequate defensive position. As daybreak approached, he
skillfully withdrew the platoon to the main lines. Later in the morning,
he was assigned the mission of counterattacking the same outpost, this
time as an integral part of his company. Brought under murderous enemy
fire during the advance, he fearlessly continued to move forward until
relieved by another unit. Throughout the entire period, he exposed
himself in order to offer advice and encouragement to the Marines.
Second Lieutenant Leister's gallant and courageous actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LEVESQUE, JOSEPHAT N.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Josephat N. Levesque (129429), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 - 27 March 1953.
Serving as a machine gun ammunition carrier, Private First Class
Levesque displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty.
While participating in a counterattack on a vital enemy-held outpost,
the unit of which he was a member was pinned down by a devastating
hostile mortar and artillery barrage. When one of his comrades was
severely wounded, he courageously removed his helmet and put it on the
head of the injured man. In order to shield his comrade from further
injuries, he fearlessly covered the man with his body until he himself
was wounded and rendered unconscious. His intrepid deed and willingness
to sacrifice his life for that of a comrade served as an inspiration to
all who observed him. Private First Class Levesque's gallant and
courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
LUBKA, BASILE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Basile Lubka (0-50285), First
Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action while serving with the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST
Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against the enemy near Wonju,
Korea, on 11 June 1951. Serving as a rifle platoon leader, First
Lieutenant Lubka was given the mission of assaulting Hill 721, then
occupied by a large enemy force which had successfully repulsed several
previous attacks. Skillfully deploying his platoon, Lieutenant Lubka led
his men through an intense hail of enemy fire, until the accurate fire
from a hidden enemy machine gun forced his unit to seek cover. Without
regard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Lubka exposed himself in
order to locate the gun emplacement, and quickly destroyed it. This
action enabled the platoon to continue the assault and seize the
objective. The gallantry and courageous leadership displayed by
Lieutenant Lubka on this occasion contributed immeasurably to the
success of the mission, and reflects great credit on himself and the
military service.
Headquarters: X Corps, General Orders
No. 175 (August 16, 1951)
Home Town: Ohio
LUEDDEKE, GUSTAVE F., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Gustave F. Lueddeke, Jr. (0-29711), First
Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Observation
Squadron in Korea on 27 and 28 September 1950. As the pilot of an
unarmed helicopter, First Lieutenant Lueddeke made seven flights over
enemy held territory to evacuate fourteen United States Army personnel
that were isolated from friendly forces by an enemy ambush. Upon
learning that a unit of the First Army Cavalry Division had been
ambushed and sustained several serious casualties, he volunteered to fly
to the area and aid in their evacuation. Although the area was
forty-five air miles from his base, and regardless of his own personal
safety, he successfully completed his voluntary mission, thereby saving
the lives of the wounded United States Army personnel. His actions and
devotion to duty were an inspiration to all members of his squadron.
First Lieutenant Lueddeke's heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MARTIN, W. L.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to W. L. Martin (298134), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps,
for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a
Section Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST
Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces
in Korea on 28 May 1951. With his company assaulting a heavily fortified
and numerically superior hostile force deeply entrenched on Hill 659
near Inje, Sergeant Martin unhesitatingly maneuvered his section forward
and joined the point platoon. Braving intense small-arms, grenade, and
automatic-weapons fire, he skillfully deployed his men and supervised
their attack against the outnumbering force and, in addition,
voluntarily undertook the observation and direction of the 60-mm. mortar
platoon's fire. By his decisive and aggressive actions, courageous
leadership and heroic efforts, Sergeant Martin was in large measure
responsible for the success of his company in the infliction of many
casualties upon the aggressors, and his staunch devotion to duty
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD: 1st Marine Division,
Serial 23888
Home Town: Dallas, Texas
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)
MCDURMIN, RICHARD E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Richard E. McDurmin (587456), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, near Seoul, Korea, on 2 October
1950. Private First Class McDurmin serving as a Platoon Runner,
voluntarily and courageously went through enemy small arms and machine
gun fire to help remove wounded Marines of an adjacent platoon to
covered positions. Upon the successful evacuation of all the wounded
Marines he personally reorganized the remaining members of the adjacent
platoon and fearlessly led them in the assault against well-entrenched
enemy forces. His display of initiative and leadership materially aided
in successfully accomplishing its assigned mission. Private First Class
McDurmin's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
MCELREA, LAWRENCE W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Lawrence W. McElrea (1070084), Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company, of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 6 June 1951. Serving as
a Fire Team Leader in a Rifle Platoon, Corporal McElrea was moving with
the platoon in the attack of an enemy hill position defended by a large
enemy force in strong emplacements, when the unit was subjected to
devastating enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire. When he
observed that a member of his fire team had been wounded and was lying
in an exposed position, and realizing that a corpsman was not nearby, he
fearlessly and with complete disregard for his own safety rushed to his
comrade's side and dragged him to a covered position, administering
first aid to him although exposed constantly to heavy enemy fire. Then
seizing the man's automatic rifle, he assigned it to another rifleman,
and moved forward in the attack, materially assisting in the final
seizure of the objective. His unselfish devotion to duty and great
personal bravery aided materially in the saving of his comrade's life,
and were an inspiration to all who observed him. Corporal McElrea's
heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
MCMINN, JAMES L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to James L. McMinn (665737), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against enemy
aggressor forces while serving with a Marine Engineer Platoon employed
by an Infantry unit of the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 2
December 1950. Serving as a machine gunner with the outpost line of
resistance in the vicinity of the strategically important military base
at Hagaru-ri, Corporal McMinn displayed exceptional courage and devotion
to duty as he covered the withdrawal of the platoon to the main line of
resistance. After many hours of repeated vicious enemy attacks the
platoon had suffered heavy casualties before the numerically superior
foe finally overran the right flank of the outpost. When the Company
Commander ordered a withdrawal, Corporal McMinn had the only machine gun
still in operation and, bravely remaining in position he successfully
covered the platoon's withdrawal, delivering a devastating volume of
accurate fire enabling the platoon to reach safety without receiving
further casualties. Without any assistance or covering fire he made his
way back to friendly lines repeatedly turning to fire at the oncoming
enemy. Upon reaching the main line of resistance he set up his gun and
continued to fire until the attack was stopped. By his exceptional
courage and lack of fear in the face of intense hostile fire, Corporal
McMinn contributed directly to the success of the company in holding its
section of the defensive line. His unfaltering devotion to duty was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MCNUTT, RUSSELL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Russell W. McNutt (0-51611), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Attack Squadron of
the FIRST Marine Air Wing, in Korea, on 27 March 1952. First Lieutenant
McNutt, member of a flight dispatched to bomb a railroad by-pass bridge
and to effect a rail cut near Hasangsan, skillfully scored a direct hit
on the railroad. During this action the flight leader was forced to bail
out of his aircraft when it was hit by enemy fire. First Lieutenant
McNutt, undeterred by multiple small arms fire, lowered his landing gear
and flaps and followed the parachuting pilot in order to effectively
mark his downed position. Subsequently, the downed pilot was captured by
two enemy troops and First Lieutenant McNutt's aircraft was severely
damaged by anti-aircraft fire, causing excessive oil leaks and
restricted visibility. Regardless, he persisted in low firing passes
over the scene to discourage the enemy from leaving the area with their
prisoner. When the rescue helicopter arrived, First Lieutenant McNutt
directed it to the downed pilot. His skilful airmanship and courageous
actions in the face of grave personal risk contributed greatly to the
liberation of the downed pilot and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MENZIES, HENRY D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Henry D. Menzies (0-23941), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with the FIRST Marine Air Wing, in Korea, from 1
December 1950 to 7 December 1950. Captain Menzies, as Command Pilot of
an R-4D transport aircraft, made numerous landings and take-offs from
extremely small and hastily constructed airstrips located at Koto-ri and
Hagaru-ri, Korea. A concentration of enemy troops, estimated to number
seventy-thousand, completely surrounded these airstrips and at Koto-ri
strip, enemy troops were entrenched within two hundred yards. Take-offs
and landings were made directly into enemy small arms fire and the
possibility of attacks from enemy aircraft was always present. Despite
these hazards, Captain Menzies successfully landed twelve loads of
urgently needed ammunition, food and medical supplies to the FIRST
Marine Division and other elements of the TENTH Army Corps who were
surrounded in the Chosin Reservoir area of Korea. He also made twelve
take-offs, with his plane dangerously overloaded with sick, wounded, and
frost-bitten comrades and delivered them safely to a rear area. The
outstanding pilot ability and exceptional judgment exhibited during this
period of grave danger was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
MINER, ROSS R.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Ross R. Miner (0-35874), First
Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer, Company F, 2d
Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, in action against the enemy on 29 May
1951. On that date, First Lieutenant Miner's company was given the
mission of assaulting an enemy position near Panjang-ni, Korea. The
position was situated on commanding terrain dominating the regimental
zone of action, and was defended by an estimated battalion of enemy
forces, well entrenched and fighting a determined rear guard action.
After employing all available supporting fire, Lieutenant Miner
skillfully led his company in an assault on the position. With complete
disregard for his personal safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to
intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire in order to
observe and control the actions of his men. As a result of his
outstanding leadership, the objective was secured with a minimum of
casualties, and the enemy forces to withdraw. The gallantry and high
devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Miner on this occasion reflect
great credit on himself and the military service.
Headquarters: X Corps, General Orders
No. 225 (October 7, 19512)
Home Town: California
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Korea)
MINTON, FRANK A., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Frank A. Minton, Jr. (0-43592), First Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron, in
Korea, on 4 December 1950. First Lieutenant Minton, serving as a Pilot
of an unarmed observation plane, displayed outstanding skill, courage
and confidence in the performance of his duties. On one occasion, while
flying his plane over enemy lines, he observed signs of activity near
two houses located in a valley deep in enemy territory. He immediately
made a very low pass over the area, where he noticed that a distress
message was written in the snow and that friendly troops were signaling
to him via flashing rays of a mirror. Realizing that he would betray the
position of the friendly troops if he circled their position, he
continued the low pass through the valley, at the mouth of which his
plane was struck by enemy fire. After informing units of the location of
the trapped men, he then, despite the great personal danger involved,
made successive flights over the friendly unit's position, dropping food
and ammunition to them. His aggressive actions and complete disregard
for his own personal safety served as an inspiration for all who
observed him and were directly instrumental in the rescue of the
friendly troops. First Lieutenant Minton's heroic actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MOCK, ROY J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Roy J. Mock (289369), Technical Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Amphibian Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 20 September 1950. As a
Section Commander in charge of an amphibian tractor section, Technical
Sergeant Mock observed many wounded Marines near the front lines.
Technical Sergeant Mock ordered his tractor driven as near to the front
lines as possible, then he disembarked and fearlessly and courageously
proceeded on foot to the front lines making five trips under intense
enemy mortar and small arms fire returning each time with a wounded
Marine. During these trips he killed four of the enemy and captured two.
Technical Sergeant Mock's heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MOOTS, LAWRENCE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Lawrence R. Moots (1057664), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Artillery Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 28 November 1950. When
two Marines were seriously wounded and laying in an enemy fire swept
area, two attempts were made to remove the wounded Marines to safety. On
each attempt, the would-be rescuers were wounded themselves and failed
to reach the wounded Marines. Corporal Moots, with complete disregard
for enemy mortar, automatic and small arms fire, and well aware that the
two previous attempts to rescue the wounded had failed, fearlessly made
his way to the wounded Marines, carried one of them to safety, and
returned through the enemy fire and rescued the second Marine. His
outstanding bravery and devotion to duty in the face of enemy fire was
an inspiration to all who observed him and undoubtedly saved the lives
of the two wounded Marines. Corporal Moots' heroic actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MUELLER, CHARLES E.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Charles E. Mueller (1096342), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving
as a Fire Team Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines,
FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor
forces in Korea on 15 March 1951. Although painfully wounded in the head
when his unit was subjected to intense fire from concealed enemy
positions during a company assault against a hostile strong point
located on commanding terrain, Corporal Mueller bravely continued to
make his way forward toward the objective. Crawling through the heavy
enemy fire to a hostile bunker which was impeding the advance of the
company, he hurled two grenades through the aperture of the emplacement,
killing the occupants and silencing the enemy fire. By his marked
courage, daring initiative and gallant devotion to duty, Corporal
Mueller served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD: 1st Marine Division,
Serial 60174
Home Town: Locust Grove, Virginia
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)
MULLINS, CHARLES L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Charles L. Mullins (0-44184), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a carrier based Marine Attack Squadron of the
FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in Korea. On 27 December 1952, Captain
Mullins participated in an aerial assault against a major enemy supply
installation on the Northwest coast of Korea. During repeated bombing
runs on the target one of the attacking planes was struck by
anti-aircraft fire and the pilot was forced to parachute into the icy
waters of the Taedong estuary. While the other elements of the flight
took covering stations above the downed pilot, Captain Mullins conducted
low strafing runs against the enemy batteries firing from the nearby
shore. Upon receiving information that friendly helicopter and surface
vessels were approaching the estuary, he rendezvoused with them to act
as guide and protective cover for the defenseless craft, through an
intense barrage of hostile fire. At this stage of the rescue operation a
flight of enemy jet interceptors pressed a diving assault against the
rescue facilities and were immediately engaged by the covering propeller
driven aircraft. Whenever the intruding fighters broke through the
defensive screen, Captain Mullins successively met them with head-on
firing runs that thwarted their attacks on the rescue facilities. When
the enemy aircraft finally disengaged, he momentarily resumed his
strafing assaults on the hostile shore and then escorted the withdrawal
of a rescue boat that had been severely damaged by enemy shore fire.
Although his fuel reserve had reached a dangerously low level, he
bravely remained on station until other aircraft arrived. Only then did
he return to his carrier where he landed with almost empty fuel tanks.
Captain Mullins' heroic actions in behalf of a fellow airman reflected
great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
NEWTON, GEORGE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to George R. Newton (0-5786), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 23 September 1950. Lieutenant
Colonel Newton, acting as Battalion Commander, was ordered to attack and
seize a hill on the outskirts of Seoul, Korea. The battalion attacked
and seized the assigned objective against fierce resistance, and in so
doing, the left flank of the battalion became exposed to heavy enemy
small arms, mortar, and artillery fire. Lieutenant Colonel Newton,
fearlessly and courageously with complete disregard for his own safety,
remained in exposed positions from which he could direct the activities
of his unit and inspire them to hold the ground they had gained in spite
of severe casualties. His heroic actions and initiative were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
NEWTON, MINARD P., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Minard P. Newton, Jr. (0-49755), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, near Yudam-ni, Korea, on 27 November 1950.
Second Lieutenant Newton, serving as a Platoon Commander, displayed
outstanding professional skill, aggressiveness and perseverance when his
company was subjected to an attack by an enemy force employing small
arms, automatic weapons and mortars. Due to the numerical superiority of
the enemy force, his platoon's position was partly overrun during the
fanatical enemy night attack. He, with complete disregard for his own
personal safety, quickly reorganized his platoon and led them up a steep
hill in the counterattack against the enemy. When the company was
ordered to move to a new position, he volunteered to remain as the rear
guard. By successfully holding his exposed position against two enemy
attacks, he thereby enabled his company to move to the newly assigned
position with a minimum of casualties. His timely actions and coolness
under fire served as an inspiration for all who observed him and
inspired the men of his command to greater efforts. Second Lieutenant
Newton's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
NOLAN, JACK L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Jack L. Nolan (0-49869), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle
Platoon Commander of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST
Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces
in Korea on 27 November 1950. boldly moving among the positions of his
platoon during a heavy enemy attack on his battalion's right flank,
Second Lieutenant Nolan repeatedly braved the hostile barrage to direct
effective fire and encourage his men in vigorously defending their
sector. Despite sub-zero temperatures and damaging enemy small-arms,
machine-gun, mortar and grenade fire, he continued to conduct his
platoon in resisting the numerically superior hostile attack and, by his
inspiring and cool leadership, was responsible in great measure for the
destruction of over 200 of the enemy in his sector and for the repulse
of the fierce assault. His indomitable courage, fighting spirit and
staunch devotion to duty reflect great credit upon Second Lieutenant
Nolan and the United States Naval Service.
OLIVER, SCOTIA D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Scotia D. Oliver (530387), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 21 September 1950. Sergeant Oliver
was serving as a platoon guide when his platoon was attacking strongly
entrenched enemy positions that were supported by mortars, machine guns,
and small arms. During the attack the fire from enemy positions
increased in intensity and forced the platoon to take cover and call for
friendly artillery and mortar fire. Observing numerous Marine casualties
lying in exposed, enemy fire swept areas, he fearlessly and with utter
disregard for his own personal safety, ran through the enemy fire to aid
and evacuate the casualties. Although during this action he was
painfully wounded, he courageously continued on his voluntary mission,
refusing medical treatment or evacuation. Observing that his platoon
sergeant became a casualty, he immediately assumed those duties,
reorganized the platoon and boldly moved among the members to point out
targets, direct their effective fire and move them in position for the
continuation of the attack when the friendly supporting fires lifted.
Only after the enemy positions were neutralized and his platoon had
successfully seized the objective did he submit to medical treatment and
evacuation. Sergeant Oliver's heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
O'NEIL, LAWRENCE A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Lawrence A. O'Neil (0-54868), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 15 August 1952. Serving
as leader of a machine gun platoon, Second Lieutenant O'Neil exposed
himself continually to intense artillery, mortar and automatic weapons
fire during an attack on his position. When the Marines manning one
machine gun were wounded and evacuated, he personally operated the
weapon, delivering effective fire on the enemy and causing an estimated
fifteen enemy casualties. Sighting an enemy mortar that was delivering
fire on the friendly position, he carried the machine gun to another
position on the defense line, set up the gun and put the enemy mortar
out of action. When his machine gun was destroyed by enemy fire he left
his position, exposing himself to heavy artillery fire to carry three
wounded Marines to cover. Upon hearing that a Marine had been killed on
the forward slope, he volunteered to lead a detail which went forward
under heavy enemy fire to recover the body. Second Lieutenant O'Neil's
gallant and courageous actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
OROZCO, PETE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Pete Orozco (1056541), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of
the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 2 December 1950.
South of Yudam-ni, the rifle platoon to which Private First Class Orozco
was assigned was pinned down by heavy enemy small arms fire while
attempting to seize a well dug-in enemy position. Private First Class
Orozco voluntarily moved alone to the flank of the enemy position and,
in the face of the heavy enemy fire, fearlessly assaulted the position
with hand grenades, killing eight of the enemy and driving back the
remainder. His initiative and complete disregard for his own personal
safety allowed the platoon to complete the seizure of their objective
without further casualties. Private First Class Orozco's heroic actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
PARRY, FRANCIS F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Francis F. Parry (0-7187), Lieutenant Colonel [then
Major], U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Artillery Regiment
of the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 2 - 3 December 1950.
Serving as a Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Parry displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. Despite the sub-
Zero weather, rocky and mountainous terrain, critical ammunition
shortages, personnel and equipment casualties and almost constant
displacements, he skillfully kept every one of his weapons in action and
rendered continuous and highly effective artillery support to the
infantry operations. In one instance, he dauntlessly proceeded with the
point of the leading infantry unit in order to make a timely
reconnaissance for artillery positions in terrain where suitable
positions were almost impossible to find. Realizing that he must get his
leading battery into position immediately to prevent the interruption of
artillery support, he courageously made a personal reconnaissance of an
area that was still being fought for by infantry units. Expressing
complete disregard for his personal safety, he gallantly brought the
battery into the area in the face of murderous hostile fire and directed
its emplacement. After establishing a defensive perimeter, he
successfully defended the position against constant efforts by the enemy
to dislodge him and capture his guns. He displaced his weapons only
after the rear guard of the infantry approached his position and
artillery support was assumed by another of his batteries. Lieutenant
Colonel Parry's outstanding leadership and gallant and courageous
actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PELOSI, LOUIS M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Louis M. Pelosi (0-55938), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of
the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 25 February 1953.
Serving as a Platoon Commander during a raid against a heavily fortified
enemy hill position, Second Lieutenant Pelosi displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the unit was pinned down
by enemy mortar, grenade, machine gun and small arms fire and had
received numerous casualties, he immediately reorganized and continued
his advance. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he
fearlessly moved from position to position, encouraging the men and
directing their fire and maneuver. Despite poor visibility and although
painfully wounded himself, he succeeded in killing twenty-five of the
enemy, knocking out several bunkers and automatic weapons and destroying
enemy trench lines. When ordered to withdraw, he overcame the
adversities of enemy fire and difficult terrain features and skillfully
returned his platoon and their casualties to the friendly lines. Second
Lieutenant Pelosi's gallant and courageous actions served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
PERKINS, JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to James Perkins (1016689), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Regiment of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 2 November 1950. Serving as a member
of the Division postal section attached to the regiment, Corporal
Perkins volunteered to deliver mail to a battalion on outpost duty. When
the convoy with which he was traveling was ambushed by a large enemy
force, he courageously and with complete disregard for his personal
safety, remained in a position exposed to withering enemy automatic
weapons and small arms fire in order to deliver effective fire on the
enemy. Twice wounded during the engagement, he fearlessly continued to
rain fire on the enemy, until he was wounded a third time, and could not
operate his own weapon. Refusing to seek medical attention for his
painful wounds, he maintained his position under intense enemy fire,
loading magazines for his comrades so they could continue the
engagement. When the enemy was finally repulsed, he assisted in aiding
the wounded, refusing medical attention until all other casualties had
been treated. Throughout the entire engagement, he maintained personal
control of the mail in his charge, and ultimately delivered it intact to
proper authority. His great personal bravery and courageous devotion to
duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Corporal Perkins'
heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
PERRY, JOHN E., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to John E. Perry, Jr. (1186729), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 8 July 1953. Serving as a wireman,
Sergeant Perry displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to
duty. When the enemy launched heavy attacks against friendly positions,
devastating hostile barrages of artillery and mortar fire completely
destroyed the communications net within the company sector and two
friendly outposts located far forward of the main line of resistance.
Despite the murderous enemy fire, he exposed himself to the hostile fire
while attempting to restore the vital wire system from the command post
to the platoons and to the outposts. Through his fearless and tireless
efforts, wire communications were maintained within the sector. Although
exhausted from lack of sleep and working under extremely adverse weather
conditions, he exhibited intrepid resourcefulness under fire and
outstanding devotion to duty. Sergeant Perry's gallant and courageous
actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to
all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
PIRTLE, WILBURN D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Wilburn D. Pirtle (1015353), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Engineer Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 15 March 1951. Private
First Class Pirtle, serving as a member of a demolition tam attached to
an Infantry Company, displayed outstanding skill, courage and confidence
in the performance of his duties. On one occasion during an engagement
with numerically superior enemy forces, a fellow Marine was mortally
wounded while attempting to throw a demolition charge in an enemy
emplacement. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he
volunteered to take the prepared demolition charge in an attempt to
destroy the enemy position. Though subjected to direct enemy small arms
and machine gun fire, he fearlessly moved to an exposed position from
which he could accurately place the demolition charge on the enemy
emplacement, thereby killing the occupying enemy forces and completely
neutralizing their position. His courageous actions and devotion to duty
served as an inspiration to all who observed him and materially
contributed to the success achieved by his company. Private First Class
Pirtle's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
PIZZI, HERMAN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Herman J. Pizzi (1214155), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company in the
FIRST Marine Division, in Korea on 6 October 1952. Serving as a fire
team leader, Private First Class Pizzi displayed outstanding courage and
devotion to duty during the defense of a forward outpost. Under cover of
darkness, the enemy delivered an intense artillery and mortar barrage
followed by an assault of infantry troops. Throughout the action, he
fearlessly exposed himself to the deadly enemy fire in order to check
his men and administer aid to the wounded. Despite his determined
efforts, the men of his fire team were killed by the enemy fire and he
was severely shaken by concussion. Although his weapon had been
destroyed and he was armed with only a knife, he moved from position to
position, aiding the wounded Marines. After organizing the few left, he
directed the evacuation of the critically wounded Marines to the main
line of resistance. While en route to the main lines, he was painfully
wounded but with grim determination, he continued to the friendly lines
where he collapsed from shock and concussion. When he recovered
consciousness, he volunteered to lead a rescue party to evacuate the
rest of the casualties. Private First Class Pizzi's gallant and
courageous actions inspired all who observed him and were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
POPE, EUGENE J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Eugene J. Pope (0-24778), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron in Korea, on 11
August 1950. Captain Pope, as Pilot of a helicopter, attempted the
rescue of a Marine carrier-based pilot who had been shot down in the
Kesong area. He proceeded immediately to the area in which the pilot was
reported down and although this area was behind the enemy lines, Captain
Pope landed his helicopter near the wreckage of the fighter plane and
went to the assistance of its pilot, whom he found dead. He placed the
body of the pilot in the helicopter and returned it to a rear area.
Captain Pope's heroic action was in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Michigan
POPE, LEROY T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Leroy T. Pope (1278442), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 24 July 1953. Serving as a
gunner in the company mortar section, Private First Class Pope displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the enemy
launched vicious attacks against the sector that the company occupied,
he was engaged in a fire mission delivering devastating mortar fire upon
the hostile forces. During this fire mission, an illuminating mortar
shell was accidentally dropped in one of the gun pits and the ignition
cartridge of the missile was ignited by the impact of the projectile
striking the ground. The deadly missile rolled into the ammunition pit
where it threatened to explode all of the ammunition in the pit. Upon
noticing this, Private First Class Pope expressed complete disregard for
his personal safety and gallantly seized the dangerous projectile and
hurled it clear of the ammunition pit and personnel in the area. The
fused shell exploded in the air about ten feet from him without causing
any damage or casualties. His courageous actions saved at least four
people in the immediate area from serious injury and possible death.
Private First Class Pope's gallant and courageous actions combined with
his remarkable resourcefulness during the hazardous encounter served as
an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
POWERS, GEORGE N.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to George N. Powers (1151291), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Engineer Company of the FIRST Marine
Division, FMF, in Korea, on 22 November 1951. While the company was
acting in support of an infantry regiment, the detail of which Corporal
Powers was a member was subjected to an intense concentration of enemy
mortar fire. Although wounded by the first bursting shell, and bleeding
profusely from his wounds, he left a place of comparative safety and
fearlessly moved through the heavy enemy fire to a point at which it was
most intense in order to carry a wounded Marine to cover. Despite his
wounds he remained on the scene, refusing medical aid for himself, to
assist in the evacuation of his comrades. Corporal Powers' gallant
conduct and courageous loyalty to his fellow Marines were an inspiration
to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
PROCTOR, LOUIS G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Louis G. Proctor (0-56992), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 25 July 1953. Serving
as a Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Proctor displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the company's sector of
the main line of resistance was subjected to murderous enemy mortar and
artillery fire, he received a call for aid from the extreme right flank
of his position. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety,
he courageously exposed himself to the devastating hostile fire and
while moving through the trenchline, he was twice knocked down by blasts
of enemy mortar and artillery rounds. Although painfully wounded he
dauntlessly reached the right flank and found a seriously wounded
comrade. When attempts to evacuate the wounded Marine through the
trenchline failed, he called for volunteers and carrying one end of the
stretcher he gallantly aided in carrying the stricken man over the crest
of a hill that was under direct enemy observation to the aid station
approximately four hundred yards away. After assuring that the wounded
man was being properly cared for, he returned to his platoon,
consolidated his badly depleted forces and defended his position against
numerous vicious enemy attacks. When the hostile troops succeeded in
driving back the flanks of his position, he gallantly led his men in a
counterattack and restored his line. Only after his line was fully
regained and all his men cared for did he allow his own wounds to be
treated. Second Lieutenant Proctor's gallant and courageous actions
combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
PURCELL, ROBERT D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Robert D. Purcell (0-55350), Second Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 31 January 1953. Serving as a
Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Purcell displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He commanded the base of fire
during a platoon raid on an enemy hill position. As the assault
proceeded, he opened his base of fire and directed it at the enemy
positions resisting the advance. Although subjected to intense enemy
fire throughout the action, he expressed complete disregard for his
personal safety and maintained radio contact with the company in order
to call accurate supporting arms fire. When the assault commander called
for aid to evacuate a seriously wounded Marine, he unhesitatingly went
to the advance element of the assault force where he dragged the
casualty back to a defiladed position. After returning to his unit, he
continued to direct accurate fire of all supporting arms and his own
base of fire. He covered the return of the raiding force and was the
last man to leave the objective area. Because of several stretcher cases
and twenty walking casualties, the pace was extremely slow but he
expertly controlled the rear guard throughout the entire withdrawal.
Second Lieutenant Purcell's gallant and courageous actions served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
QUESENBERRY, CHARLES P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Charles P. Quesenberry (649379), Staff Sergeant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 26 July 1952. Staff
Sergeant Quesenberry displayed exceptional courage while participating
in three separate patrols during one day. After the initial patrol, it
was discovered that one member was missing. With no concern for his
personal safety, Staff Sergeant Quesenberry exposed himself to the
intense enemy fire to join a rescue party attempting to locate the
Marine. Upon reaching the base of the hill he provided the necessary
covering fire which enabled the remainder of the patrol to advance up
the hill and carry the body to an area lower on the hill. Forced to
withdraw due to intense enemy fire, they placed the body in a position
where it could be recovered by another patrol. Returning to the main
line of resistance, he volunteered to lead another patrol forward to
retrieve the body. He fearlessly led the patrol to the position and
directed supporting fire in such manner that they were able to remove
the body with no further casualties. Staff Sergeant Quesenberry's
selfless devotion to duty and coolness under fire were inspirational to
all who observed him. His gallant and heroic actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
QUINN, FRANCIS X.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Francis X. Quinn (0-55941), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon
Commander of Company D, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine
Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea
on 5 - 6 April 1953. Voluntarily leading a patrol in the difficult and
extremely hazardous mission of aiding another friendly unit which had
been ambushed by the enemy over 2,000 meters forward of the main line of
resistance, Second Lieutenant Quinn led his men through intense hostile
small-arms and hand-grenade fire and skillfully maneuvered them to a
position between the stricken friendly patrol and the enemy. Although
painfully wounded during this action, he dauntlessly continued to move
among his men, successfully covering the withdrawal of the friendly unit
and directing the evacuation of the wounded. Discovering that the
ambushed patrol was unable to account for all its members, he
reorganized his unit and returned to the point of initial contact where
he remained until daylight to make every possible effort to locate the
missing men. By his courageous leadership, resolute determination and
gallant devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Quinn served to inspire all
who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD: 1st Marine Division,
Serial 20739
Home Town: Williamsburg, Virginia
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)
RANKIN, MARCUS V.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Marcus V. Rankin (1182035), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 14 July 1953. Serving as a Squad
Leader, Sergeant Rankin displayed outstanding courage, initiative and
devotion to duty. During the early morning hours a friendly listening
post unit proceeding forward of a company outpost position inadvertently
entered a minefield and detonated a mine which killed one Marine and
wounded three others. Realizing that immediate evacuation of the wounded
was essential, he and one of his comrades carried one injured Marine to
the comparative safety of the outpost. After removing the injured man to
the outpost, he courageously returned over the treacherous area to aid
the other stricken men. Upon reaching the stricken unit, he again
adeptly directed and assisted in carrying the wounded Marines to the
safety of friendly lines. Although physically exhausted, he exhibited
remarkable courage as he ignored his personal safety and proceeded
forward through the hazardous minefield in complete darkness in an
attempt to retrieve the body of the mortally wounded Marine.
Demonstrating sincere loyalty for his fallen comrade, Sergeant Rankin
diligently traversed the entire area until daylight searching for the
body. Sergeant Rankin's gallant and courageous actions combined with his
highly competent leadership and indomitable spirit served as an
inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
RAYBURN, EARL J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Earl J. Rayburn (651323), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 16 and 17 September 1951. Sergeant
Rayburn displayed exceptional initiative, skill, and leadership as
Platoon Sergeant of a machine gun platoon during a fierce two-day action
near Sintan-ni. When the company headquarters group came under sudden
and intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire while
the rifle platoons were in the attack, he moved fearlessly from position
to position, exposing himself continually to enemy fire to direct
counterfire. Later that night as the rifle platoons withdrew into a
company defense perimeter, he displayed the same complete disregard for
his personal safety as he rushed from unit to unit in the face of
intense enemy fire, setting up his guns and assisting the platoon
leaders in deploying theirs. The next morning he courageously moved with
the attacking element, and when it neared its objective while under
intense fire, he dashed from gun to gun, directing fire, eliminating
stoppages, and shouting words of encouragement to his men. Though
seriously wounded by enemy fire, he remained steadfastly with one gun
and continued designating targets until ordered to be evacuated.
Sergeant Rayburn's heroic actions served as an inspiration to all who
observed him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
REGAS, WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William Regas (0-26574), Major [then Captain], U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 18 July 1952. As a
Forward Air Controller, Major Regas volunteered to fly an artillery
spotting mission with a Marine Observation Squadron. Assigned the
mission of locating a downed friendly aircraft, he courageously flew his
plane at a dangerously low altitude and made two passes over the area to
make a positive identification and search for signs of life. When the
observer accompanying him was unable to identify the downed aircraft,
he, although subjected to intense enemy anti-aircraft fire,
unhesitatingly took his plane down even lower. Receiving fire from all
directions, Major Regas held the plane at this low altitude, enabling
the observer to thoroughly search for signs of life. He then continued
to circle the area and called for artillery fire which would encompass
the downed plane and protect the occupants, if still there, from the
enemy. Only after friendly fighter aircraft arrived did he return to his
base. Major Regas' fearless actions and indomitable spirit were an
inspiration to all who observed him. His courageous actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
REINBURG, JOSEPH H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Joseph H. Reinburg (0-7464), Major, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy as Pilot of a Fighter Plane and Squadron Commander of a Marine
All-Weather Fighter Squadron, operating from a base in Japan, on the
night of 21 August 1950, against enemy heavy artillery positions in
Korea. This enemy artillery had pinned down and was inflicting heavy
casualties on friendly forces. Flying at extremely low altitudes in
absolute darkness and in mountainous terrain Major Reinburg was able to
locate the enemy guns by their flashes. Completely ignoring his personal
safety he made repeated bombing, rocketing, and strafing attacks on the
enemy positions which were reported destroyed by ground controllers.
After all armament was expended he remained in the area making repeated
passes over enemy positions until friendly troops could move out. Major
Reinburg's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
REMINGTON, EDGAR F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Edgar F. Remington (0-37430), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy in Korea. On 17 October 1952, Captain Remington led a flight of
three Marine attack aircraft to escort an unarmed rescue helicopter deep
into enemy territory. Braving intense heavy anti-aircraft fire, Captain
Remington skillfully led his flight over the enemy's main line of
resistance in order to effect an expeditious rendezvous with the rescue
aircraft. Upon joining with the helicopter and its escort of naval
aircraft, he assumed leadership of the rescue mission and established a
protective circle around the vulnerable helicopter. In the face of
intense and accurate automatic weapons fire, he initiated a series of
daring low-level strafing sweeps which effectively silenced the weapons.
Because of low fuel the Naval aircraft were forced to leave the
formation and return to their base, and the helicopter was forced to
retire because of fuel shortage and impending darkness. As the rescue
aircraft reversed its course, Captain Remington's wingman lost contact
and could not locate the helicopter. Despite the danger imposed by
mountainous terrain and intensive hostile fire, Captain Remington
remained below the slow moving helicopter in order to maintain visual
contact. Remaining in this hazardous position in total darkness he
continued to provide protective escort by intermittently turning on his
own external lights to draw enemy ground fire away from the unarmed
helicopter. This heroic action at great risk to his own life was
responsible for the safe and successful retirement of the rescue
aircraft. The courageous conduct in behalf of his fellow airman,
exceptional professional skill and selfless devotion to duty shown
throughout by Captain Remington reflected great credit upon himself and
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
*REYNOLDS, PHILIP A. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver
Star Medal (Posthumously) to Philip A. Reynolds (1078521), , U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a
machine gunner of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marine Regiment,
First Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor
forces in Korea on 29 November 1950. With his company under attack by a
vastly outnumbering hostile force, Corporal Reynolds repeatedly exposed
himself to a devastating barrage of enemy automatic weapons and small
arms fire to deliver a large volume of accurate fire on the attackers.
Mortally wounded while attempting to clear his gun and put it back in
operation after it had jammed during the furious action, Corporal
Reynolds served to inspire his comrades to heroic efforts and
contributed immeasurably to the successful repulse of the enemy attack.
His outstanding courage and loyal devotion to duty in the face of
overwhelming odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Freehold, New Jersey
RICE, THOMAS K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Thomas K. Rice (1210808), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 6 June 1952. Serving as
a member of a combat patrol deep in enemy territory, Private First Class
Rice displayed outstanding courage and initiative in the face of grave
danger. When the patrol was engaged by a numerically superior enemy
force, he was responsible for the security of the left flank and rear of
the patrol. Withstanding the tremendous preparatory artillery fire, he
refused to give ground when four consecutive enemy attacks were hurled
against his sector. Although stunned by the concussion of mortar shells
and hand grenades and exposed to intense enemy small arms and automatic
weapons fire, he defiantly repelled fierce enemy onslaughts which came
within six feet of his position. In the course of the action he
personally killed eight enemy and put the rest to flight. Private First
Class Rice's courage and fearless devotion to duty were an inspiration
to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
ROACH, MAURICE E.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Maurice E. Roach (0-8492), Major, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Regiment in Korea, from 26
September to 4 October 1950. Major Roach constantly demonstrated
outstanding qualities of leadership, skill and courage while serving as
Commanding Officer of an Infantry Battalion. Leading his battalion in
its first action against enemy forces, he, by his competence and
professional knowledge of infantry tactics, conducted the operations of
his battalion in a most expeditious and efficient manner. In the
battalion's first assault on 26 September 1950, by his direction and
supervision, the battalion overcame an elaborate enemy defense on a hill
guarding the northwest approaches to Seoul, Korea. On 2 October, the
battalion was stopped by a strongly fortified enemy position near Uijong-Bu,
Korea. By his complete knowledge of the situation, the enemy position
were overrun in a minimum amount of time. During this period he
constantly operated in the forward areas, where he, with complete
disregard for his own personal safety, maintained close contact with the
front lines so as to keep abreast of the situation in order to best
direct the tactical employment of his battalion. His timely actions,
complete knowledge of infantry tactics and aggressiveness, inspired all
members of his command and were directly instrumental in the success
achieved by his battalion. Major Roach's heroic actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Korea)
RODRIGUEZ-GONZALEZ, RAFAEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Rafael Rodriguez-Gonzalez (1240178), Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of
the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 19 to 20 March
1953. Serving as a fire team leader, Private First Class
Rodriguez-Gonzalez displayed outstanding courage, initiative and
devotion to duty while participating in the defense of an outpost
forward of the main line of resistance. When the enemy launched a savage
assault, he unhesitatingly manned a fighting position and although
knocked to the ground on several occasions by the concussion of hostile
grenades and mortar rounds, he fearlessly resumed his position and
delivered accurate, killing fire on the attackers. When he learned that
the communications between the outpost and the machine gun positions had
been destroyed by the intense enemy fire, he expressed complete
disregard for his personal safety and exposed himself in order to relay
wire to the machine gun emplacements. After re-establishing the vital
communications, he courageously placed himself in a position where the
enemy had directed heavy fire. Through his savage fighting and
indomitable spirit, he prevented the enemy from gaining access to the
trench and outpost. Private First Class Rodriguez-Gonzalez's gallant and
courageous actions and aggressive leadership served as a constant
inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ROSSNER, RICHARD B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Richard B. Rossner (1180424), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 16 November 1951. Private First
Class Rossner displayed unusual courage, resourcefulness and initiative
while a member of a patrol dispatched to return wounded Marines to
friendly lines. The unit was brought under heavy enemy automatic weapons
fire, and the patrol leader, while attempting to maneuver it to cover,
detonated a land mine which killed or wounded every man in the patrol.
Despite the fact that he had himself been painfully wounded, he led his
comrades to shelter and administered first aid. He then returned to
friendly lines and guided to the scene another patrol which carried the
wounded Marines to safety. His fortitude and devotion to duty were
largely responsible for the safety of his comrades. Private First Class
Rossner's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
ROUNDTREE, LOUIS
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Louis Roundtree (662089), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire
Team Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine
Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea
on 10 June 1951. Although his weapon was rendered inoperative by hostile
bullets and he suffered a painful wound in the hand during an attack
against a strongly defended enemy position, Corporal Roundtree picked up
the rifle of a wounded comrade and bravely charged forward up the
fire-swept hill in an assault on a hostile bunker. Upon nearing the
bunker, he was literally swept from his feet by a hostile satchel charge
and, although rolled back down the steep slope, bruised and bleeding,
refused medical attention, rendering assistance to other casualties
until the serious nature of his wounds compelled his evacuation. By his
aggressive fighting spirit, outstanding courage and selfless devotion to
duty in the face of heavy odds, Corporal Roundtree served to inspire all
who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD: 1st Marine Division,
Serial 60174
Born: at Kathwood, South Carolina
Home Town: Kathwood, South Carolina
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)
ROWLAND, HAROLD W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Harold W. Rowland (617245), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 21 September 1950. During the
advance of his company, the platoon in which Sergeant Rowland was
serving as a Squad Leader, was pinned down by intense enemy small arms
and machine gun fire. Without regard for his own personal safety, he
fearlessly jumped up and assaulted an enemy machine gun nest with hand
grenades and fire from his carbine, and succeeded in destroying the
machine gun and killing the crew. He then began dressing the wounds
suffered by five members of his squad. His courageous actions and
display of initiative were an inspiration to all members of his company
and materially aided in the successful continuation of the advance.
Sergeant Rowland's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SAGER, WAYNE B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Wayne B. Sager (617397), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 10 February 1951. Serving as a
60-mm. mortar squad leader attached to a rifle platoon on an independent
mission near Chigadong, Sergeant Sager displayed outstanding courage and
initiative when the unit, while proceeding along a narrow, exposed trail
which dropped off sherry on both sides, was subjected to intense enemy
fire from entrenched positions on commanding ground. Disregarding
completely his own safety in the face of the heavy enemy fire, which had
already wounded many of his comrades, he quickly set up his mortar and
delivered accurate fire on the enemy. Although he was temporarily
blinded by flying rock fragments, he continued to fire his mortar,
locating the tube by sense of touch, until he was painfully wounded in
the face and chest. His great personal bravery and fearless devotion to
duty enabled the rifle platoon to deploy in the attack and were an
inspiration to all who observed him. Sergeant Sager's heroic actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
SALAZAR, AUGUSTINE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Augustine E. Salazar (1208286), Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of
the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 21 June 1952.
Serving as an automatic rifleman, Private First Class Salazar displayed
exceptional heroism and devotion to duty when the patrol to which he was
attached was attacked by a numerically superior enemy force. With no
concern for his personal safety, and although previously wounded, he
remained at his post until ordered to withdraw. Despite his own painful
wounds, he administered first aid to another wounded Marine and began to
carry him back to friendly lines. Private First Class Salazar's concern
for a fellow Marine and coolness under fire were an inspiration to all
who observed him. His gallant and courageous actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SCHAEDEL, RICHARD T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Richard T. Schaedel (1062410),
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company
of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 18 August 1950.
Corporal Schaedel, as a communications non-commissioned officer assigned
to a tank platoon, efficiently restored communications that were
necessary to coordinate the action of the infantry and supporting tanks.
Observing that communications in three tanks had become inoperative,
Corporal Schaedel voluntarily moved from tank to tank repairing the
radio sets. In order to accomplish this task, it was necessary for
Corporal Schaedel to climb upon each tank and enter through the turret,
thereby exposing himself to further observation and fire by the enemy.
Corporal Schaedel's heroic actions, his efficiency and devotion to duty
contributed greatly to the success of the operation. The gallantry
displayed by Corporal Schaedel reflects great credit on himself and is
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Headquarters, 8th Army, Korea,
General Orders No. 200 (December 18, 1950)
SCHMUCK, DONALD M.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Donald M. Schmuck (0-5914), Lieutenant Colonel,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, from 26 November to 11
December 1950. With complete disregard for his own personal safety and
exposed to heavy enemy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire,
Lieutenant Colonel Schmuck, serving as Commanding Officer, personally
led elements of his battalion in a daring tactical series of combat
patrols which completely destroyed an enemy force estimated to be of
battalion strength that was operating against the Division's Main Supply
Route and rail-head. When ordered to attack north to seize and occupy a
vitally important terrain feature in order to cover the movement of the
Division, he fearlessly and courageously led his battalion in an
aggressive attack up six miles of tortuous and precipitous ice-covered
slopes to assault and overcome strongly-defended positions that were
defended to the last man by an enemy battalion. His courageous actions,
inspiring leadership, and brilliant tactical directions enabled the
battalion to successfully accomplish its assigned mission. Lieutenant
Colonel Schmuck's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Korea)
SCHMUCK, DONALD M.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Donald M.
Schmuck (0-5914), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division
(Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 23 February 1951. Assigned the mission of
seizing strategic Hill 168, which dominated the approaches to Hoengeong,
Lieutenant Colonel Schmuck disregarded completely his own personal
safety in moving close behind his assaulting rifle companies to direct
and control the attack. Although constantly exposed to devastating enemy
automatic weapons, small arms, and hand grenade fire, he courageously
directed the assault and seizure of the heavily-defended crest of the
vital hill, and then personally reorganized his companies for the
continuation of the attack. His presence with the assaulting elements
and his great personal bravery so inspired his men that they swept
forward irresistibly and completed the rout of the entrenched enemy in
hand-to-hand combat. Lieutenant Colonel Schmuck's inspiring leadership
and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Korea)
SCHWINDT, WILLIAM A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William A. Schwindt (1171518), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Reconnaissance Company of
the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 20 December 1951. An
automatic rifleman, Private First Class Schwindt was a member of a fire
team assigned to a rear guard mission on an ambush patrol. When the unit
was brought under heavy enemy automatic weapons fire, he manned his
weapon with courage and skill, and continued to fire it even after
having been wounded in the left hand, by propping the weapon on his
knee. Again he was struck by the enemy fire, yet continued to fire until
unable to do so because of paralysis of his right hand. At this point he
would allow no one to expose himself to give him aid. After lying in his
exposed position for an hour, he crawled to one which afforded cover
where he allowed one of the two survivors of the fire team to render
temporary first aid. For a period of two and a half hours he maintained
a watch until relieved by the main ambush group. During the return of
the patrol to friendly lines he refused all assistance despite his
wounds, the rugged terrain and constant enemy harassment, in order that
the trip might be as expeditious and safe as possible, for the entire
unit. His fortitude and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who
observed him and an important contribution to the success of the patrol.
Private First Class Schwindt's heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SCIUTI, ROSCOE J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Roscoe J. Sciuti (1178077), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 19 - 20 September 1952. Serving
as an automatic rifleman, Private First Class Sciuti displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the combat
patrol of which he was a member was ambushed forward of the main line of
resistance, many casualties were inflicted by the intense enemy fire.
The patrol leader was hit and a white phosphorus grenade which he was
carrying was set off by the enemy fire, covering his body with the
burning material. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety
and despite the heavy enemy fire falling in the immediate area, Private
First Class Sciuti unhesitatingly ran to the aid of his wounded comrade,
covering the burning body with his own in an attempt to extinguish the
flames. This attempt failing, he tore off the burning clothing, threw
dirt on him and rolled him over and over on the ground. During the
entire period, he picked up and threw back several enemy grenades that
landed near the wounded Marine. By his gallant and courageous actions
and selfless devotion to his fellow man, Private First Class Sciuti
served as an inspiration to all who observed him. His actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SIMS, LEWIS M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Lewis M. Sims (1172900), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division, FMF, in Korea, on 28 March 1953. Serving as a machine gun
section leader, Corporal Sims displayed outstanding courage, initiative
and devotion to duty. He was a member of a unit that was engaged in the
initial assault on a strongly fortified hostile position when the unit
was subjected to a murderous barrage of enemy mortar and artillery fire
which inflicted many casualties. Although painfully wounded, he
expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and refused medical
aid for himself while he assisted in administering treatment to his
seriously injured comrades. Ignoring his own condition, he courageously
moved from man to man directing the rescue teams and giving words of
encouragement to the wounded men. In one instance, he gallantly rose to
his full height under the devastating enemy fire in order to carry a
helpless Marine to the comparative safety of the trenchline. Shortly
after, as a result of his critical wounds, he fell unconscious and was
evacuated. Corporal Sims' gallant and courageous actions combined with
his selfless devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
SINDLINGER, JACK W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Jack W. Sindlinger (919816), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Seoul, Korea, during the period 24 September
1950 to 2 October 1950. Corporal Sindlinger acting as a Rifle Squad
Leader continuously displayed outstanding courage and leadership against
enemy forces. On one occasion while participating in an attack on strong
enemy emplacements on the crest of Hill 228 and as elements of the
attacking forces reached the top of the hill, he led his squad through
intense enemy machine gun fire to a position at the top of the hill
within 25 yards of the enemy. Here Corporal Sindlinger reorganized many
scattered elements of the attacking forces with his squad and deployed
them to repel repeated close-in counterattacks. Without regard for his
personal safety he fearlessly exposed himself continually to control the
defense of his position and by example to inspire his unit until
seriously wounded in the head by enemy fire. His initiative, courageous
leadership and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
SKELT, ERNEST P., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Ernest P. Skelt, Jr. (0-42317), First Lieutenant,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Engineer Battalion of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 7 December 1950. First
Lieutenant Skelt, serving as officer-in-charge of a four-man demolition
team, courageously led his team in the destruction of a large concrete
bridge, many buildings and other facilities which could by used by the
enemy in the town of Hagaru-ri, Korea, after all friendly forces had
left the town. Although large groups of enemy were entering the town
from the opposite end, he repeatedly and fearlessly exposed himself to
enemy fire in order that the rear guard might gain a distance of several
hundred yards before he detonated the last of the explosive charges.
While working far to the rear and, on occasion, out of sight of the
friendly rear guard, he led his men for a period of sixteen hours, six
of which were during darkness, in carrying out his demolition mission.
With enemy elements frequently within sight of the rear guard, he
repeatedly disregarded enemy small arms and mortar fire and the
possibility of imminent contact with a numerically superior enemy force
to delay the advance of the enemy. Despite the many difficulties
confronting him and although usually beyond effective range of friendly
covering forces, he aggressively led his team in the successful
completion of his vital mission. First Lieutenant Skelt's heroic actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
SLUDOCK, JOSEPH C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Joseph C. Sludock (1221079), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 27 October 1952.
Serving as a fire team leader with a small unit established far forward
of the main line of resistance, Private First Class Sludock displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When an
overwhelming enemy force attacked the position, he immediately
positioned his fire team and brought deadly fire to bear on the enemy. A
sudden barrage of hostile mortar and artillery fire struck the outpost
and many of the defenders were wounded. After moving the casualties to a
sheltered tunnel, he remained at one of the entrances and delivered
intense fire with his submachine gun. He was instrumental in killing
five of the attackers and wounding at least five others. When the enemy
withdrew, he moved through the trenchline to insure that all of the
wounded had been placed in covered positions. When the second assault
was launched, he and several other Marines engaged the enemy in hand to
hand combat until it was impossible to repel the overwhelming force.
Again he assumed a position to protect the casualties and when an
artillery barrage forced the enemy to withdraw, he returned to the
tunnel and offered words of encouragement to the wounded and assisted
wherever possible. Private First Class Sludock's gallant and courageous
actions served as a constant inspiration to all who observed him and his
indomitable spirit was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
SMITH, BURNEAL E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Burneal E. Smith (0-37856), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to
Marine Aircraft Group TWELVE (MAG 12), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in
action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 26 March 1953.
Suddenly attacked by a flight of hostile jet interceptors while
voluntarily escorting the tactical air co-ordinator of a massed aerial
assault on a mission against enemy supply installations in the vicinity
of Chinnampo, Captain Smith immediately countered the attack with
aggressive firing runs on the vastly superior enemy and succeeded in
disrupting their flight, skillfully maneuvering his aircraft to
successively engage the swept-wing fighters as they conducted individual
dives against the flight leader. As the last of the attackers dived past
the nose of his aircraft, he gave momentary pursuit and shattered the
nose of his aircraft, he gave momentary pursuit and shattered the right
wing of the enemy plane with a burst of machine-gun fire, resulting in
the immediate disengaging and retiring f the hostile flight from the
area. By his exceptional courage, professional skill and unyielding
devotion to duty in the face of extreme peril, Captain Smith
successfully defended the tactical air co-ordinator, who subsequently
directed the diverse elements of the striking force in a highly
successful bombing strike against the primary objective, thereby
upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD: 1st Marine Aircraft Wing,
Serial 7158
Born: at Springfield, Ohio
Home Town: Springfield, Ohio
SMITH, CHARLES F., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Charles F. Smith, Jr. (1137771), Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of
the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 17 July 1953.
Serving as a rifleman, Private First Class Smith displayed outstanding
courage, initiative and devotion to duty. The patrol while operating far
forward of the main line of resistance, was preparing to establish a
base of fire when the group was suddenly attacked from the front and
flanks by a numerically superior enemy force. In the ensuing action the
patrol leader, assistant patrol leader and radioman were seriously
injured leaving the patrol temporarily without a leader or
communications. Private First Class Smith exhibited remarkable
resourcefulness, as he picked up the radio, hastily repaired the aerial
and informed the company commander of the situation. With exceptional
skill, he accurately called in friendly mortar fire on the enemy
enabling the patrol to reorganize. Observing that a proper defense was
still needed, he completely organized the patrol in a perimeter defense
and then assigned members of the squad to evacuation teams. When the
patrol was finally ready to disengage, he was in complete control and
skillfully led them back to friendly lines. Upon returning, he
discovered that four members of the patrol were missing and
unhesitatingly volunteered to take a detail back to the endangered area.
His determined aggressiveness and courageous actions were directly
responsible for bringing the missing man back to the main line of
resistance. Private First Class Smith's gallant and courageous actions
combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
SMITH, RUSSELL J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Russell J. Smith (1190228), Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 27 March 1953. Serving as a Platoon
Guide, Sergeant Smith displayed outstanding courage, initiative and
devotion to duty in the absence of his superiors. While engaged in
combat with the enemy on an outpost far forward of the main line of
resistance, he skillfully maneuvered the platoon through intense hostile
mortar and artillery fire. Although painfully wounded, he refused
evacuation and courageously led the assault on an enemy objective. Upon
reaching the strategic position, the platoon was pinned down by
devastating small arms fire. Expressing complete disregard for his
personal safety, he dauntlessly advanced and found a position from which
he delivered deadly fire on an enemy machine gun bunker, putting it out
of action and enabling the unit to move forward. Again refusing medical
attention, he directed tank fire on another hostile installation. He
reached the objective with the unit and moved about, caring for his
injured comrades and directing the evacuation. Only after the hostile
position had been fully secured would he allow himself to be evacuated.
Sergeant Smith's gallant and courageous actions combined with his
determination and indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who
observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
SPAFFORD, RICHARD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Richard L. Spafford (1160036), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 26 July 1952. After returning
from a combat patrol, Private First Class Spafford volunteered to join a
rescue party attempting to locate a missing man. Upon reaching t he foot
of the hill, he proceeded up until he was extremely close to enemy
positions. With no concern for his personal safety, he fearlessly
exposed himself to the enemy small arms, grenade and mortar fire to
locate the dead Marine. Upon finding the body, he carried it down the
hill while subjected to heavy enemy fire. The intensity of the fire made
it necessary for him to place the body in a position where a subsequent
patrol would locate it. Private First Class Spafford's steadfast
devotion to duty, initiative and coolness under fire were an inspiration
to all who observed him. His gallant and courageous actions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ST. JOHN, ROSCOE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Roscoe R. St. John (0-29619), , U.S. Marine Corps,
for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as
Pilot of a Fighter Plane in a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron
serving with the FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, while acting as escort for
a Navy Rescue Helicopter in enemy-controlled territory approximately
forty-five miles southwest of Wonsan, Korea, on 22 October 1951. Captain
St. John upon seeing the helicopter taken under intense enemy
anti-aircraft fire deliberately and with disregard for his own personal
safety, piloted his F7F fighter plane to an altitude approximately two
thousand feet below the helicopter and repeatedly flew back and forth
across the firing batteries successfully drawing the fire away from the
helicopter, permitting it to proceed safely to a successful completion
of the rescue mission assigned. By his superb airmanship, daring tactics
and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Captain St. John
contributed materially to the success of an extremely difficult rescue
mission. His zealous devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest
credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
SURBER, RALPH E.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Ralph E. Surber (326338), Staff Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, from 13 to 15 August 1952.
Serving as a Platoon Sergeant, Staff Sergeant Surber displayed
exceptional heroism and leadership in the performance of his duties.
While moving his platoon into position under intense enemy mortar and
artillery fire, he calmly deployed his men over the platoon's sector.
Fearlessly exposing himself to the enemy fire, he personally supervised
his men in setting up positions and encouraged those who were suffering
from exhaustion and heat. During the enemy assault, he picked up an
automatic rifle and delivered devastating fire into the group and forced
them to retreat with many casualties. Although wounded shortly
afterward, he dauntlessly continued to aid his platoon in many ways. At
different times, he exposed himself with no concern for his personal
safety to carry critically needed ammunition and water to his men. Staff
Sergeant Surber's gallant and courageous actions were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Korea)
TEVERBAUGH, JESSE W., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Jesse W. Teverbaugh, Jr. (1125999), Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while
serving with a Marine Infantry Regiment, in Korea, on 6 and 7 December
1950. Corporal Teverbaugh, a member of the graves registration team, was
driving a weapons carrier in a vehicle convoy, moving from Yudam-ni to
Koto-ri, Korea, when the convoy was ambushed by a strong enemy force in
the hours of darkness. The members of the convoy took firing positions
along the side of the road. He observed an unidentified man crawl under
a truck and, without regard for his own personal safety, he crawled
under the enemy fire to the vehicle. Finding that the man was an enemy
soldier, he fearlessly crawled under the vehicle and killed the enemy
with his knife. Later, when the convoy was again halted by accurate
machine gun fire, he obtained three grenades and while exposed to the
direct enemy fire, succeeded in destroying the enemy position. His
aggressive actions were an inspiration to all who observed him and
materially contributed to the successful advance of the convoy. Corporal
Teverbaugh's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
THOMAS, ALFRED I.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Alfred I.
Thomas (0-45440), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with
a Marine Infantry Battalion in Korea, from 1 to 18 March 1951. First
Lieutenant Thomas, serving as Company Commander of an Infantry Company,
displayed outstanding skill, courage and confidence in the performance
of his duties. Throughout this period, he, by his outstanding
professional knowledge of infantry tactics, aggressiveness and
initiative, was directly instrumental in the successful accomplishment
of all missions assigned his Company. On one occasions, his company was
assigned the mission of seizing a hill west of Hoengsong, Korea, that
had been taken and lost by friendly forces on four different occasions.
After thorough planning and a detailed briefing of his four platoon
commanders, he accompanied the leading elements of his company in the
assault on the heavily defended enemy position. With complete disregard
for his own personal safety, he continually exposed himself to heavy
enemy small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire while directing the
attack. Inspired by his courageous actions, his company culminated the
attack with a bayonet charge, which resulted in the complete
annihilation of the enemy forces and the capture of numerous rifles,
machine guns, grenades and other enemy material. His aggressive actions
and devotion to duty served as an inspiration for all who observed him
and contributed materially to the success achieved by his company. First
Lieutenant Thomas' heroic actions were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Korea)
THOMPSON, BILLY B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Billy B. Thompson (599421), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire
Team Leader of Company D, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine
Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea
on 23 April 1951. With his squad leader killed and another comrade
seriously wounded during a night attack on his sector when a large
hostile force, supported by withering automatic-weapons, mortar and
small-arms fire, advanced to within a few feet of his position, Corporal
Thompson bravely carried the wounded man to safety in the face of heavy
fire and immediately returned to his post. Finding the squad badly
depleted, disorganized and short of ammunition, he promptly assumed
command, established a new firing line and, personally obtaining
ammunition from an adjacent unit, directed a devastating volume of fire
upon the attackers which completely halted the assault and inflicted
heavy casualties on the hostile troops. By his outstanding courage,
exceptional leadership and aggressive fighting spirit, Corporal Thompson
served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
TIPTON, WILLIAM R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to William R. Tipton (668058), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Reconnaissance Company of
the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 4 November 1950.
While participating in a motorized reconnaissance patrol of enemy
terrain, Private First Class Tipton, serving as an automatic rifleman,
and other members of the patrol were subjected to heavy enemy small arms
and mortar fire and all but one of his squad were wounded. Although
seriously wounded in the leg, and suffering from pain and loss of blood,
Private First Class Tipton repeatedly and fearlessly exposed himself to
the enemy fire and covered the withdrawal of the wounded patrol members
with his automatic rifle until he received a second wound and could no
longer operate his weapon. His courageous actions materially aided the
wounded members of the patrol to withdraw to friendly lines and report
the results of their assigned mission. Private First Class Tipton's
display of initiative and heroic actions were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
TITTERSON, RICHARD F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Richard F. Titterson (654544), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action
against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the
FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 22 February 1953.
Serving as a platoon runner, Private First Class Titterson displayed
outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. During a raid on a
strongly fortified hostile position, he volunteered to be the point man.
Upon nearing the objective, he again fearlessly volunteered to lead a
two-man team to seize a known enemy listening post located inside a
burned out tank. Although realizing that the tank was undoubtedly mined
and covered by enemy fire, he unhesitatingly crawled to within a few
yards of the hulk and threw grenades into the open hatch. Later, he
courageously led the assault element over seven hundred yards of open
terrain to reach the enemy position. Although painfully wounded, he
delivered devastating small arms fire at point-blank range into the
enemy. He dauntlessly covered the advance of the flame throwers and
supporting units as they seized the objective. Private First Class
Titterson's gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable
spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea),
Purple Heart
TREADWELL, MARVIN T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Marvin T. Treadwell, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps,
for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as
Fire Team Leader, Company B, First Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine
Division in action against enemy forces in Korea on 29 May 1951. While
moving to cover the flank of the 2d platoon which was advancing on enemy
positions on a hill mass south of Yang Gu, Korea, Corporal Treadwell's
fire team observed an enemy force preparing to attack the column.
Realizing the threat, he moved quickly to reinforce the lead element of
the threatened platoon by skillfully maneuvering his team while under
hostile fire to a position 30 feet in front of two enemy positions. The
enemy intensified its fire with grenades and automatic weapons, wounding
several Marines. Corporal Treadwell moved fearlessly into the open and
initiated a flanking movement through a breach in the enemy defensive
line. Without regard for his personal safety, he took an exposed
position to cover his team as they entered an enemy bunker and trench
complex. Noticing an enemy bunker located at the top of the objective,
he charged the enemy position, jumping on the roof of the bunker and
firing into it. His actions allowed his team to engage and kill the
enemy soldiers. By his extraordinary heroism in the face of extreme
danger, unrelenting perseverance, and steadfast devotion to duty,
Corporal Treadwell reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the
highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval
Service.
TWOHEY, RICHARD B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Richard B. Twohey (577327), Staff Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving
with Reconnaissance Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine
Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea
on 4 November 1950. Suddenly confronted by four enemy tanks while
leading a machine-gun section at the point of a motorized patrol, Staff
Sergeant Twohey bravely mounted one of the tanks in company with his
platoon commander and another Marine in an attempt to open the hatch and
drop a grenade within. Unable to open the cover, he knocked down the
periscope and deposited the grenade inside the aperture. When the tank
moved a few yards and stopped, he again climbed upon it and dropped
another grenade inside before being thrown from the vehicle during its
final lurch. By his marked courage, daring initiative and devotion to
duty, Staff Sergeant Twohey contributed materially to the successful
completion of the patrol's mission and upheld the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, 1st Marine Division,
Serial 44173
Born: at New Rochelle, New York
Home Town: New York, New York
VARELA, JOE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Joe R. Varela (625211), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 8 March 1951. Serving as a fire team
leader in a rifle platoon, Corporal Varela displayed outstanding courage
and initiative during the attack of a fortified hill position defended
by a determined enemy force. Advancing in the face of withering enemy
automatic weapons and small arms fire, he skillfully maneuvered his fire
team as the leading element, overrunning successive enemy bunkers. As
the assault progressed, his unit was suddenly subjected to an accurate
barrage of enemy hand grenades thrown from a strategically located
bunker on commanding ground. Realizing that the success of the attack
depended on the rapid neutralization of the bunker, he fearlessly and
with complete disregard for his own safety, charged forward through the
deadly barrage in a single-handed assault, accurately throwing hand
grenades into the apertures. His great personal bravery and courageous
devotion to duty resulted in the neutralization of the strategic ground.
Corporal Varela's heroic actions were an inspiration to all who observed
him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
WALDROP, OTIS R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal to Otis R. Waldrop (0-33686), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the
enemy while serving with a Marine Rifle Company of the FIRST Marine
Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 13 June 1951. Captain Waldrop was
assigned the mission of attacking and seizing a high ridge well-defended
by a series of fortified enemy emplacements. Leading his men up a
narrow, exposed spine in the face of fierce automatic weapons and mortar
fire, he repeatedly exposed himself to deploy his platoons, and on more
than one occasion, went forward of the assault echelons in order to
select a better route of approach for his platoons. By such courageous
leadership, and the expert employment of supporting arms, he was able to
press the attack so vigorously that the position was overrun and the
enemy completely routed. Captain Waldrop's bravery and devotion to duty
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
WALZ, FRED L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Fred L. Walz (666583), Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in
action against an armed enemy while serving with the FIRST Marine
Division, FMF, near Chingdong-ni, Korea, on 7 August 1950. On this date,
Private First Class Walz, a rifleman, with complete disregard for his
personal safety, repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy. The gallantry
displayed by Private First Class Walz reflects credit upon himself and
the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, EUSAK, General Orders
162 (November 8, 1950)
