Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    331st Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    83d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 5, 1944

    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 Captain (Infantry) Floyd B. Souders (ASN: 0-439120), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 331st Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action on 5 July 1944, in France. On this date the 1st Battalion launched an attack, south of Carentan, France. After a fierce day of fighting the Battalion was within three hundred yards of the objective, all communications having been blasted away by enemy shell fire. When his Battalion was threatened with disorganization under a vicious enemy counter-attack, Captain Souders, Heavy Weapons Company Commander, organized his mortar platoon as riflemen and led them up to the former line of departure. In the face of heavy mortar, machine gun and artillery fire he personally reorganized groups of men and put them under leaders on the spot. He was mortally wounded, but refused to be evacuated until the reorganization of the Battalion was completed. The complete rout of the Battalion and the loss of valuable ground was prevented due to Captain Souder’s gallant action and capable leadership. His outstanding courage and initiative reflect the highest credit upon himself and exemplify the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.