Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 29, 1944

    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 147 (April 16, 1945)

    (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 Private First Class John Bernard Silva (ASN: 32883611), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Ponto Rotto, Italy, on 29 February 1944. During heavy enemy action after his crew of nine was either killed, wounded or injured by falling rubble from rafters, Private First Class Silva single-handedly held an entire Germany Company at bay for almost thirteen hours. During this time he killed approximately thirty of the enemy and wounded an unknown number. Private First Class Silva’s extraordinary heroism, 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 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.