Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 First Lieutenant (Chaplain) Albert C. M. Steffens, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with the 1st Infantry Divison, in action near the Algerian Coast in 1943. Without thought of danger to his own life, Chaplain Steffens swam through heavy surf and a strong undertow to pull two men to the safety of an air mattress. All three men then clung to the raft until a group of officers formed a human chain and pulled them ashore. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Chaplain Steffens reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Chaplain’s Corps)

    Regiment:

    26th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 26 – 28, 1943

    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 (Chaplain’s Corps) Albert C. M. Steffens, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a chaplain with the 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action from 26 to 28 January 1943, near Cusseltia during the Tunisian Campaign in North Africa. Chaplain Steffens entered between the opposing lines, amidst heavy fire, and assisted in evacuating the wounded, administering the Last Rites, both to the enemy and to our own troops who were lying mortally wounded on the field of battle, and thereby appearing in advance of the line held by the most forward elements. By this devotion to duty, Chaplain Steffens has gained the respect and admiration of the wounded, friend and foe, and the highest moral inspiration. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Chaplain Steffens, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.