Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    442d Regimental Combat Team

    Division:

    92d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 29, 1944

    Headquarters, FIFTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 89 (July 17, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Renkichi Matsumura (ASN: 30105547), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 92d Infantry Division, on 29 October 1944 near Halley, France. When his company encountered intense enemy fire while attacking a strongly defended hill, Private Matsumura crawled under concentrated hostile fire to a point within thirty yards of an automatic weapon dugout. Firing his bazooka, he destroyed the emplacement. Pressing onward, he continued to fire his bazooka at enemy positions until his ammunition was exhausted. Hurling two hand grenades, he neutralized another enemy gun position. He then picked up a discarded rifle and pursued the enemy until the hill was completely occupied by his company. The courageous actions of Private Matsumura were an inspiration to all and exemplify the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.