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Navy Federal Credit Union

(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 Colonel (Infantry) Rupert Davidson Graves (ASN: 0-15794), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 517th Parachute Infantry Regimental Combat Team (Separate), in action against the enemy in Italy, in 1944. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Graves, 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

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    517th Parachute Infantry Regimental Combat Team

    Action Date:

    1944 – 1945
    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Colonel (Infantry) Rupert Davidson Graves, United States Army, was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer, Parachute Infantry Regimental Combat Team, from 1944 to 1945.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 26, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 207 (June 21, 1951)

    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 Colonel (Infantry) Rupert Davidson Graves (ASN: 0-15794), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 26 May 1951 in the vicinity of Yongp-o, Korea. As assistant to the Deputy Division Commander and during a visit to the 38th Infantry Regiment, Colonel Graves assumed command of the 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, after the Battalion Commander had been wounded and evacuated. The Battalion at the time was in fast pursuit of a retreating enemy and was being spearheaded by a tank column. Intense enemy sniper and mortar fire was being received from the high ground on both sides of the road. With disregard for his personal safety, Colonel Graves advanced on foot in the rear of the lead tank in order that he might better direct and control the tank-infantry team. His complete disregard for his personal safety and outstanding leadership were largely instrumental in clearing and securing the area and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.