Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 4, 1950

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 118 (1950), Amended by General Orders No. 45 (February 20, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John Balog (ASN: RA-13309407), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 4 September 1950 in the vicinity of Am-Sin, Korea. On that date Private Balog was a member of a 75-mm. recoilless rifle section which was defending positions against an attack of a numerically superior enemy force. Without regard for his own safety, he exposed himself many times to the enemy small arms fire by throwing grenades and firing his rifle. When ordered to withdraw, he volunteered to remain in his position to protect the rest of the section. He continued to fire his weapon and delayed the enemy until his position was overrun and he received a mortal wound. As a result of his accurate shooting and grenade throwing, the men of his section were able to withdraw safely to a new position. The gallantry displayed by Private Balog on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.