Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Lance Corporal

    Batallion:

    3d Engineer Battalion

    Division:

    3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

    Action Date:

    April 13, 1966

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Millard L. Pearson (MCSN: 1954220), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Demolitionist with Company C, Third Engineer Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 13 April 1966, when advancing infantry units sighted a carefully concealed bunker near Cam Se village in Quang Ngai Province, Lance Corporal Pearson fearlessly moved forward to reconnoiter the position and make preparations to destroy the bunker. After crawling through the entrance, he discovered a false bottom in the structure. Unable to pry the floor loose, he used a small charge to breach it. When two Viet Cong emerged and attempted to escape after the explosion, Lance Corporal Pearson courageously charged them at close quarters with his pistol, killing one and wounding and capturing the other. Re-entering the bunker, he discovered a third Viet Cong and killed him with a grenade. In addition to the enemy casualties, his valiant effort resulted in the capture of considerable equipment and munitions from the bunker. By his fortitude in the face of danger, initiative and dedication to duty throughout, Lance Corporal Pearson upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.