Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) George Thomas Bryon, United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy while serving as Battalion Chaplain of the 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action near Duc Hoa, Republic of Vietnam, on 9 May 1968. In the early morning hours, the forward fire support base where Captain Bryon’s unit was located came under heavy attack by an enemy battalion. In the opening moments of the attack, he was painfully wounded by mortar fragments. Although the entire defensive position was an inferno of exploding enemy mortars and rockets, Chaplain Bryon began to search out those too seriously wounded to make their way to the aid station. During the four-hour-long battle, Chaplain Bryon continued to disregard his own safety as he personally located and carried twelve wounded men from their front line positions to the aid station. His calm courage and willingness to aid others served as an inspiration to all. Chaplain Bryon’s outstanding leadership contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and the defeat of the enemy force. Captain Bryon’s aggressiveness, personal bravery ad devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received