Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    7th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    January 18 – 23, 1951

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Yale Sheldon Kiefer (MCSN: 1089515), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Runner of Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 18 to 23 January 1951. With his company pinned down by enemy fire from a heavily fortified entrenchment while conducting a patrol mission near Chisa-dong on 23 January, Private First Class Kiefer promptly charged forward through a hail of hostile machine gun and small arms fire to an open area approximately twenty-five yards to the front of his platoon. After observing the strength and disposition of the enemy, he directed accurate and effective fire against the emplacement, remaining in his exposed position and continuing his bold efforts until he was mortally wounded. His daring initiative, aggressive determination and courageous devotion to duty throughout this period of intensive action served to inspire others to heroic endeavor in destroying the hostile force and in facilitating the completion of his company’s assigned mission, thereby reflecting the highest credit upon Private First Class Kiefer and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.