Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    254th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    63d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 28, 1945

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John G. Yanochko, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the Black Forest of Germany on the night of 28 April 1945. On that day, at 1500 hours his battalion established a beachhead across the Danube River. At 1900 hours the enemy counter-attacked, making their last effort to drive the battalion back across the river. Private First Class Yanochko, under intense artillery, mortar and machine gun fire, by himself protected the left flank of his unit by keeping up an intense fire directly on the enemy and by holding his ground for three hours until help came and the enemy was forced to retreat. Altogether, Private First Class Yanochko killed 22 Germans and wounded many more. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 65th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.