Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    3d Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

    Action Date:

    July 5, 1968

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Jerry Ector (MCSN: 2406562), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company C, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam./ On 5 July 1968, elements of Company C came under intense mortar and automatic weapons fire from a well entrenched North Vietnamese Army force in Quang Tri Province. Completely disregarding his own safety, Private First Class Ector repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire as he led his men in an attack on the enemy positions. When enemy hand grenades wounded the members of a machine gun team, he aggressively led an assault on the concealed enemy bunkers and sustained a painful injury. Ignoring his wounds, he boldly continued to direct the fire of his squad as he crawled toward the North Vietnamese position, subsequently accounting for four enemy soldiers killed and enabling his platoon to continue its advance. While attempting to destroy a North Vietnamese machine gun emplacement, Private First Class Ector was killed by the hostile fire. His selfless and heroic actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Ector upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.