Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Technician Fifth Grade

    Batallion:

    4th Field Artillery Battalion (Separate)

    Action Date:

    July & August 1942

    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 31 (January 24, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Technician Fifth Grade Thaddeus Reece Steelman (ASN: 34009840), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Battery, 4th Field Artillery Battalion (Separate), in action against enemy forces in the Solomon Islands, during July & August, 1942. Technician Fifth Grade Steelman, with four other men, volunteered to organize, man, and operate an advance tele-radio observation post. Upon completion of a very rough trip in a small boat across the open sea in which enemy submarines were known to be operating, they were landed after dark on the night of 2 July. Due to the proximity of the enemy, the landing boat withdrew at once, leaving them to retreat, if necessary, into the jungle with such supplies and equipment as they might carry, to live there as best they could. The advanced post was selected, organized and operated successfully. During this performance of duty and essential service, Technician Fifth Grade Steelman contracted a tropical disease that led to his death on 7 August, after his evacuation. Technician Fifth Grade Steelman’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.