Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    28th Marines

    Division:

    5th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    March 14, 1945

    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 46924

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Sergeant Fred Heinrichs (MCSN: 278624), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as First Sergeant of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 14 March 1945. Volunteering to assume command of a platoon after his company had suffered heavy casualties among its platoon leaders, First Sergeant Heinrichs led the platoon in establishing an important position in Japanese held territory after dark and, heedless of the danger involved, went forward alone to reconnoiter several hostile positions in his path. Hurling several well-aimed hand grenades into these installations and silencing the enemy, he returned and led his platoon forward to occupy the objective. His heroic action contributed materially to the success of his company’s attack mission and his initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.