Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    134th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    35th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 15 – 19, 1944

    Headquarters, 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 18 (August 12, 1944)

    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 Edward W. Thill (ASN: 36808325), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the ***** Sector, near *****, Normandy, France, during the period 15 to 19 July 1944. At approximately 2330 on the night of 15 July 1944, word was received by the Medical Section, Third Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, that an American tank had blown up in a mine field within the enemy lines and that a crew member was lying in that vicinity severely wounded. Private Thill, a litter bearer, volunteered to attempt the rescue of the wounded soldier. He went through the enemy lines in a jeep, gave the wounded soldier first aid and placed him in the jeep. On the return trip he discovered another wounded soldier, whom he also treated and placed in the jeep. He returned safely to the Battalion Aid Station. As a result of Private Thill’s action, the wounded soldiers were saved from capture, further wounds and possible death. During the following three days he volunteered to rescue soldiers in mine fields and areas under heavy enemy small arms and artillery fire. The conspicuous bravery of Private Thill, and his utter disregard for personal safety, resulted in saving two enlisted men from more serious wounds and possible death, and reflects the highest credit upon the military service, and upon the Medical Corps in particular.