Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) Frank E. Helsel (ASN: 0-485156), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a Chaplain and member of Headquarters Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 28 May 1951, in the vicinity of Hyon-ni, Korea. On that date Chaplain Helsel was visiting front line units which were prepared to attack an enemy-held hill. While Chaplain Helsel was at the heavy mortar company’s position, the enemy began to place intense mortar fire in the immediate area, wounding many of the crew members in the nearby mortar positions. Realizing that the wounded needed immediate attention, Chaplain Helsel, with complete disregard for his personal safety, boldly and valiantly exposed himself to the deadly mortar fire to attend to several wounded men, carrying one seriously wounded man to a place of safety and administering first aid which saved his life. The gallantry and utter disregard for his own safety displayed by Chaplain Helsel reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Chaplain’s Corps)

    Division:

    43d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 43d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 290 (1945)

    (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 Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) Frank Ernest Helsel (ASN: 0-485156), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving as a Chaplain with the 43d Infantry Division, in action at Luzon, Philippine Islands, in 1945. Chaplain Helsel distinguished himself by his conscientious concern for the welfare of all personnel while in combat against the enemy. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.