Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Regiment:

    1st Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    November 26 – December 10, 1950

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Charles J. Crittenden, Jr. (MCSN: 0-42868), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant to the Commanding Officer and subsequently as Commanding Officer of Headquarters and Service Company, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 26 November to 10 December 1950. Charged with the defense of the regimental command post when the company commander became a casualty, First Lieutenant Crittenden skillfully directed his unit in repelling many fanatical enemy attacks throughout a period of five days. Although frequently subjected to accurate hostile machine gun, mortar and small arms fire, he continually moved among his men to direct operations and, despite sub-zero temperatures, expertly deployed his company during the regiment’s attack from Koto-ri to Sudong-ni, reaching his assigned objective with a minimum number of casualties. By his marked courage, bold leadership and unswerving devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Crittenden served to inspire all who observed him, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.