Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    7th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    September 23, 1944

    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 0230 (February 1, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Wendell E. Luna (MCSN: 289861), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, 23 September 1944. Observing that one of his comrades had been wounded and was lying in the open, exposed to intense and merciless enemy artillery and small-arms fire, Private First Class Luna unhesitatingly rushed to his aid and was killed in his heroic attempt to carry the wounded Marine to cover. His unselfish disregard for his own personal safety, his daring courage and unflinching devotion to duty reflect great credit upon Private First Class Luna and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.