Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 30, 1951

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 867 (December 19, 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 Charles E. Dewees (ASN: US-56071537), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 30 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date during a reconnaissance patrol on a strategic enemy-held hill, Private Dewees demonstrated dauntless courage before the enemy. As the patrol neared the top of the hill they were suddenly halted by intense enemy small arms and machine gun fire. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Private Dewees advanced and destroyed three enemy bunkers while inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. When the patrol was forced to withdraw, he remained behind and rendered supporting fire for his comrades until they had withdrawn to positions of safety. In an attempt to rejoin his comrades, Private Dewees was fatally wounded by enemy fire. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Dewees reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.