Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) John R. Casey (ASN: 0-95636), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Battery B, 37th Field Artillery Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 3 October 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On this date Lieutenant Casey, artillery forward observer, was attached to a friendly unit which had the mission of assaulting and securing an enemy-held hill. In preparation for the attack Lieutenant Casey, without thought of personal safety, advanced to a high point overlooking the hill in order to more effectively observe and adjust the artillery fire. He remained in this exposed position, under continuous hostile fire, from which he coolly and efficiently directed accurate and effective fire on the enemy. Several enemy bunkers dominating the approach to the hill were destroyed by direct hits, thus enabling friendly forces to advance and secure their objective with a minimum of time and casualties. His heroic act bolstered the confidence of the infantrymen at a critical time and was of invaluable assistance to the success of their mission. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Casey reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Field Artillery)

    Batallion:

    37th Field Artillery Battalion

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 20, 1951

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 817 (December 5, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) John R. Casey (ASN: 0-95636), United States Army, for heroic achievement on 20 September 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On this date Lieutenant Casey, artillery forward observer, was attached to a friendly unit when it was counterattacked by a numerically superior enemy force. Lieutenant Casey, voluntarily and disregarding the intense hostile mortar concentration, advanced to an exposed position in order better observe and adjust the friendly artillery fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he remained in this position directing effective artillery fire upon the enemy strong points, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy, until the hostile counterattack was repulsed. His outstanding devotion to duty and initiative were highly responsible for the success of the friendly unit in this engagement. The heroism in action displayed by Lieutenant Casey on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.