Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    November 27, 1950

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Joseph R. A. Chartrand (MCSN: 574535), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Team Leader in Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 27 November 1950. With his squad forced to withdraw to higher ground when a fanatical enemy of estimated battalion strength assaulted his company positions, Private First Class Chartrand, believing his fire team positions to be tenable, received permission to remain in his sector across a small snow and ice covered draw. Observing leading elements of an enemy force advancing toward his position during the early hours of darkness, he fearlessly exposed himself to short-range enemy fire to run to his platoon commander’s position and give warning of the approach. Returning to his own position, he skillfully held the fire of his team until a large group came to within twenty feet and, launching a bold surprise attack, controlled and directed the firing of his team in killing more than fifty enemy soldiers and in routing the remainder. Tenaciously holding his position by using hand grenades when his ammunition was expended, Private First Class Chartrand, by his daring initiative, determined fighting spirit and daring aggressiveness, was directly instrumental in preventing an enemy penetration, and his inspiring devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.