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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) Oliver W. Draine, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 1 August 1943. During combat operations Lieutenant Draine’s platoon was subjected to intense enemy mortar fire and suffered several casualties. With one of his men lying wounded and helplessly exposed to this fire, Lieutenant Draine, accompanied by an enlisted man, went to his aid. While carrying the wounded man to safety the enlisted man was killed instantly by mortar fragmentation. Despite this, Lieutenant Draine continued on alone and safely evacuated the wounded man. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    148th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    37th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    March 12, 1944
    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 1026 (June 30, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Oliver W. Draine, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 12 March 1944. When his company’s advance was stalled by intense fire from commanding Japanese defenses near Hill 700, Lieutenant Draine worked forward to within fifteen yards of a pillbox, which was armed withy heavy machine guns, and directed the effective use of smoke, fragmentation grenades and flame throwers in wiping out the hostile emplacement. Continuing the assault, Lieutenant Draine led his men in the reduction of several other pillboxes and machinegun nests, making it possible for his company’s major elements to resume an offensive which completely annihilated the enemy in that sector. Lieutenant Draine’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.