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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Captain (Medical Corps) Verne E. Chaney, Jr., United States Army, for heroic achievement on 17 and 18 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satee-ri, Korea. On these dates, in the capacity of battalion surgeon, Captain Chaney voluntarily accompanied friendly units in an assault upon a heavily fortified enemy-held hill. During the ensuing action, a numerically superior enemy force inflicted numerous friendly casualties. Without hesitation, Captain Chaney set up an aid station in the approximate area of the heavy fighting and administered medical aid to the wounded men. Captain Chaney maintained his aid station throughout this action, which lasted two days, under constant enemy observation and fire. The immediate medical attention administered by Captain Chaney saved many lives and greatly enhanced the morale of the unit. The heroism and outstanding devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Chaney on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Medical Corps)

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 9, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 92 (February 16, 1952)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Medical Corps) Verne E. Chaney, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Medical Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 9 September 1951 in the vicinity of Worun-ni, Korea. On this date Captain Chaney was personally supervising the setting up of an aid station along Bloody Ridge, when he was informed that five men lay seriously wounded in a nearby mine field. Without hesitating, Captain Chaney immediately led a team of medical aidmen to the prescribed area. At this point, unmindful of the risk involved, he began probing for enemy mines with a bayonet in an effort to clear a path to the wounded soldiers. His men, inspired by the example of personal bravery, also advanced in an attempt to reach the wounded. In the course of this act, a mine was set off and Captain Chaney was wounded. Despite the intense pain, he refused to be treated or evacuated and tenaciously continued on until he had reached his destination. Upon rendering first aid, Captain Chaney led the men back over the mine field to an aid station. His calm and confident attitude throughout this ordeal was a major factor in the successful completion of the mission. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Chaney will live forever in the hearts of his fellow men.