Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    7th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 4, 1951

    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 137 (April 7, 1952)

    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 Corporal Randolph Franklin Griffith (ASN: US-54006468), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 4 October 1951, Company C had the mission of attacking and securing Hill 281 in the vicinity of Chungse-ri, Korea. As point man for his squad, Corporal Griffith led the attack up the steep slope against the well-entrenched enemy troops. Although subjected to a heavy volume of hostile fire, the squad steadily maneuvered up the hillside until three enemy soldiers suddenly appeared in their path. The fanatical determination of the foe to hinder the further movement of the friendly unit forced Corporal Griffith and his men to seek cover. Realizing that his squad could not advance until the three hostile troops were silenced, Corporal Griffith left his position of cover and fearlessly exposed himself to the lethal spray of enemy bullets as he charged the ruthless foe. Devastatingly accurate fire from Corporal Griffith’s weapon effectively silenced the three enemy soldiers, and as he motioned for his men to advance, he was shot and mortally wounded by a concealed enemy soldier. His unwavering determination and courage inspired his comrades as they quickly advanced and captured the objective. Corporal Griffith’s gallantry reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.