Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Private

    Division:

    Air Corps Technical School Detachment

    Action Date:

    December 25, 1930

    War Department, General Orders No. 6 (1931)

    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 Private Arnold Webster (ASN: 6633288), United States Army Air Corps, for heroism, not involving actual conflict with an enemy, displayed while assigned to the Air Corps Technical School Detachment, during a fire at Hangar No. 10, Chanute Field, Rantoul, Illinois, on 25 December 1930. While this building was burning a fire hose connected to a hydrant in close proximity was burned through, causing a waste of water and reducing the pressure on the other hose lines. Because of the intense heat, the men were unable to approach the hydrant and close the valve. In spite of this, Private Webster organized a squad of men to spray water on him while he plunged into the intense heat, reached the hydrant, and shut off the water being wasted, which resulted in the saving of Hangar No. 11 and the photographic barracks. The prompt action on the part of Private Webster, his courage and bravery reflect great credit upon himself and the Army of which he is a member.