Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Hospital Corpsman

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Reinforced)

    Action Date:

    March 26 & 27, 1953

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Hospital Corpsman Paul N. Polley (NSN: 2813692), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Medical Corpsman with the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 26 – 27 March 1953. With his unit subjected to a murderous barrage of hostile mortar, artillery and small-arms fire after reaching an intermediate objective during a counterattack against a heavily entrenched and numerically superior enemy force occupying commanding ground on a bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the mainline of resistance, Hospitalman Polley courageously moved about in the face of a veritable curtain of fire to render medical treatment to the numerous casualties. Although painfully wounded and temporarily blinded when a round of enemy fire shattered the immediate area, he steadfastly refused evacuation and valiantly continued to search out his stricken comrades by sense of touch, skillfully administering first aid until physically exhausted and ordered to be evacuated. While en route to the main line of resistance, he approached an area where a number of wounded Marines were being processed for evacuation and, insisting on remaining with them, was led from one man to another, administering medical assistance until he was completely incapacitated by his wounds. By his exceptional fortitude, inspiring initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Polley was instrumental in saving the lives of many of his comrades. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.