Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Technical Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant]

    Action Date:

    May 27, 1951

    Headquarters, Far East Air Forces, General Orders No. 381 (August 10, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Technical Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant] Stanley H. Whonic, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy, at the Tama Arsenal, Far East Air Material Command, on 27 May 1951 while serving as an Ammunition Handling Supervisor. During the modification of 2.36 rocket motors, a White Phosphorous Grenade Head accidentally exploded, scattering phosphorous throughout the assembly building and burning personnel and equipment. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Sergeant Whonic directed and assisted in the evacuation of personnel from the building. Displaying great presence of mind and coolness he administered first aid treatment to the injured while directing the complete evacuation of burning equipment and explosives from the building. Totally disregarding possible serious injury to himself, Sergeant Whonic moved one employee suffering from severe burns to a place of safety and administered immediate first aid. His prompt action was directly responsible for saving the life of this individual who received third degree burns on the entire lower part of his body. Sergeant Whonic’s courage reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.