Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    119th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 14, 1945

    Headquarters, 30th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 137 (June 1, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Vern L. Gough (ASN: 38691312), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, on 14 April 1945, in Germany. When two hundred enemy infantrymen supported by tanks made a determined counterattack, Private Gough, a machine gunner, steadfastly manned his weapon and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy despite the intense fire falling all around him. Although he was almost buried by a tank shell which exploded near him, he extricated himself and continued firing. Private Gough gallantly remained in his position until the enemy was routed. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Gough, 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.