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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Technician Fourth Grade Frank Eugene Palco, Jr., United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with while serving with the Medical Detachment, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in Belgium in 1944. Technician Fourth Grade Palco rushed into an air raid shelter which had been partially demolished by bombs and gave first aid treatment to three persons he found severely injured and trapped under a fallen beam. Realizing that the women would die unless removed immediately, Sergeant Palco, despite great personal danger from the burning and collapsing building, and although having had only one week training as a first aid man, amputated the legs of the trapped women and removed them to safety. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Technician Fourth Grade Palco reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Technician Fourth Grade

    Regiment:

    120th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 15, 1945
    Headquarters, NINTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 145 (January 15, 1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Technician Fourth Grade Frank Eugene Palco, Jr. (ASN: 33650820), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Medical Detachment, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Belgium, on 15 January 1945. Technician Fourth Grade Palco, an Aid Man, despite heavy enemy fire, rendered first aid to 13 wounded men. In subsequent action, after giving aid to a wounded assistant, completely disregarding intense enemy fire, he led tanks forward in order that wounded men might be evacuated and succeeded in evacuating 16 seriously wounded men who would have died of their wounds or exposure. Technician Fourth Grade Palco’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.