Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    141st Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    36th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    December 8, 1944

    Headquarters, 36th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 213 (June 10, 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 M. Tejada (ASN: 38675241), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action on 8 December 1944 in France. Private First Class Tejada, an automatic rifleman, was manning a telephone outpost beyond friendly lines and 300 yards from the enemy when he observed approximately 100 Germans preparing to attack. He immediately directed accurate mortar fire and disorganized the hostile force. The enemy then discovered his outpost and sent a nine-man patrol to destroy it. When the hostile soldiers opened fire from a distance of 75 yards, Private First Class Tejada returned their fire with his automatic rifle. During the fire fight which ensued, he valiantly stood his ground, killing seven members of the enemy patrol and wounding the other two Germans. The enemy then directed 20-mm. gun fire on him, but he remained steadfastly in position and directed mortar fire on the hostile troops, inflicting many casualties and finally forcing them to withdraw. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.