Sponsored by:

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 Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Private First Class [then Private] Earl G. Heltzel (ASN: US-52020608), United States Army, for heroic achievement on 19 May 1951 in the vicinity of Inje, Korea. On that day the first platoon had established a defensive position on two sides of an open valley. Realizing that the platoon had an excessive amount of territory to defend against an attacking enemy, Private Heltzel, an automatic rifleman, with utter disregard for his own safety, exposed himself and placed devastating fire on the advancing enemy. This action enabled the remainder of the company and another squad to effect the tactical withdrawal to stronger positions, and eventually destroy the enemy force and complete the mission. The heroic actions of Private Heltzel reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant First Class [then Corporal]

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    9th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 30, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 736 (November 18, 1951)

    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 [then Corporal] Earl G. Heltzel (ASN: US-52020608), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 30 August 1951 in the vicinity of Yanggu, Korea. On this date Company G had secured an enemy position and was defending it from a fierce hostile counterattack. During the ensuing action a member of a squad holding an outpost position fell wounded and his position was threatened to be overrun by hostile forces. Sergeant Heltzel, witnessing the action from his nearby emplacement, unhesitatingly left his cover and advanced to the aid of the wounded man. In so doing he completely exposed himself to enemy observation and fire. Upon reaching his wounded comrade he administered first aid and carried him through the enemy fire to safety. The gallantry in action and devotion to comrades displayed by Sergeant Heltzel on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.