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 Sergeant First Class Fred Y. Furukawa (ASN: RA-39465507), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3rd Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Chunon-ni, Korea, on 31 December 1950. When a large enemy force reapproached his machine gun section, which was situated in an excellent tactical but exposed position, Sergeant First Class Furukawa called for and directed artillery fire with great accuracy, inflicting many casualties on the enemy. However, the enemy continued his attack, whereupon he directed his machine gun fire into the enemy, causing approximately 50 casualties and temporarily disrupting the attack. Despite great losses the enemy attacked again and again while Sergeant First Class Furukawa contiguously exposed himself to intense fire in order to maintain an excellent degree of unity, control, and efficiency. His fearless actions served as an example to his men, inspiring them to such a degree as to make this gallant stand possible. Although he was finally ordered to withdraw he maintained his section in action until all other friendly units had withdrawn and then skillfully led his men, with their weapons and equipment intact, through the enemy and rejoined his company. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant First Class Furukawa, 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:

    Sergeant

    Regiment:

    34th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 31, 1950

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 273 (1951)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Fred Y. Furukawa (ASN: RA-39465507), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division in Korea. 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.