Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    126th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    32d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    December 1, 1942

    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 28 (May 24, 1943)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Meredith Miller Huggins, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters, 3d Battalion, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 1 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign near Sanananda, New Guinea. Captain Huggins successfully led a party through enemy infested terrain to the assistance of an isolated force which was holding an important position behind enemy lines. A strong attack by the enemy was repulsed after the arrival of his party. He found the isolated unit’s commanding officer had been killed, and Captain Huggins assumed command. He was wounded while exposing himself to enemy fire, but inspired his men by the example of his courage. Captain Huggins’ outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.