Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Cavalry)

    Batallion:

    743d Tank Battalion (Separate)

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 18, 1944

    Headquarters, 30th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 125 (December 15, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Cavalry) Peter L. Henderson (ASN: 0-514303), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 October 1944, in Germany. First Lieutenant Henderson distinguished himself during the action that resulted when a strong enemy force, composed of tanks and infantry, attacked the flank of his company’s position. In defiance of the approaching enemy which had already overrun the flank defenses, First Lieutenant Henderson dismounted and coolly went from one tank to another, reassuring and directing his men. Then he led the attack against the enemy, firing at the first enemy tank three hundred yards away and destroying it with his initial shots. First Lieutenant Henderson inspired his men so highly that his outstanding courage and leadership during the action that they held and then drove the foe back. The bravery, aggressive determination, and exemplary leadership exhibited by Captain Henderson reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.