Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Hospital Corpsman Third Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    26th Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    May 25, 1967

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Melvin Overmyer (NSN: 1383965), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company H, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 25 May 1967, while his unit was attacking an enemy fortified position near Con Thien, Petty Officer Overmyer’s platoon commander was seriously wounded and lay in an open area ten meters from an enemy bunker. Unhesitatingly leaving his position of relative safety, Petty Officer Overmyer courageously rushed forward through the intense enemy fire and immediately began treating the casualty’s wounds and administering artificial respiration. Realizing that the lieutenant’s wounds precluded his immediate evacuation, Petty Officer Overmyer steadfastly refused to leave his side and continued to render medical aid. Although wounded and thrown to the ground by the concussion of an exploding enemy grenade, Petty Officer Overmyer quickly regained his feet and, returning to the casualty, continued his determined efforts to save the wounded man’s life. Subsequently, as a result of the intense enemy fire around him, Petty Officer Overmyer sustained a serious head wound and was evacuated. His outstanding professionalism and resolute determination were an inspiration to all who observed him. By his courage, exceptional professional skill and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Petty Officer Overmyer upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.