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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 (Infantry) James W. Doyle (ASN: 0-959316), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 13 February 1951, B Company’s First Platoon, under Lieutenant Doyle’s command, encountered elements of an enemy regiment near Susori, Korea. Fully exposing himself to the hostile fire, Lieutenant Doyle moved among his men urging them to stabilize their position and directing devastating counterfire upon the assaulting enemy forces. Later in the engagement, a tank platoon arrived to support the embattled infantry unit and again braving the severe hostile fire, he made his way to contact the tanks’ commander, remaining in the open to point out targets. When the unit was finally forced to withdraw, Lieutenant Doyle repeatedly moved through the bullet-swept terrain to place the wounded on the tanks and evacuate them to the rear. This task completed, he then withdrew with the remainder of the platoon. Lieutenant Doyle’s steadfast and daring gallantry reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 26, 1951
    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 438 (September 30, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James W. Doyle (ASN: 0-959316), United States Army, for heroic achievement during ground operations against a hostile force as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 26 August 1951, Company B was occupying defensive positions on the vital Hill 266, near Noltra-ri, Korea, when, during the hours of darkness, it was attacked by an overwhelming hostile force using automatic weapons and supported by heavy artillery. The Second Platoon, located on high ground to the front, was forced to withdraw to the main line of defense, and Lieutenant Doyle, First Platoon Leader, immediately organized his men to provide over-head covering fire for the Second Platoon. During the encounter Lieutenant Doyle exposed himself repeatedly to the withering enemy barrage while moving from position to position to check, instruct and encourage his men. Due to his tenacious efforts, the enemy attack was halted, and, when it became light, he led his platoon in a daring counterattack upon the foe occupying the high ground. Inspired by his audacious aggressiveness, the platoon was successful in regaining the previously vacated positions. Lieutenant Doyle’s exemplary leadership and heroism reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.