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 Captain (Infantry) David H. Hill (ASN: 0-1284331), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 3 – 4 March 1951, near Togosan, Korea, Captain Hill was leading his company into an area known to be occupied by a force of approximately four hundred enemy troops who were attempting to cut the main supply route in that area. Upon arrival in the enemy-infested area, he deployed his platoons in a tight perimeter and as darkness approached, a patrol of about forty of the enemy appeared. Due largely to Captain Hill’s inspiring leadership, almost all were totally destroyed in a fierce battle. As the main attack began early the next morning, Captain Hill immediately saw that he was greatly outnumbered and began a strategic withdrawal, meanwhile inflicting heavy casualties on the fanatical enemy. As the withdrawal continued, Captain Hill remained with the last squad and, although constantly exposed to the deadly hail of fire, assisted several men who had become almost immobile due to the freezing weather. Though the enemy followed closely behind, he stopped several times to direct fire on the enemy, thereby inflicting numerous other casualties. Although the enemy was firing on the withdrawing group with ever-increasing intensity, Captain Hill remained in the area of action until he has assured himself that all of his men had reached safety. 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    9th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    March 4, 1951

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 130 (June 2, 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 Captain (Infantry) David H. Hill (ASN: 0-1284331), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 4 March 1951 in the vicinity of Tokkosan, Korea. He was leading Company F in an attack on enemy positions on Hill 705 when elements of the company were stopped by withering automatic weapons fire from the vicinity of a woodpile on the top of the ridge. The nature of the terrain made it impossible to maneuver elements to either flank along the steep sides of the ridge. With utter disregard for his own safety, Captain Hill dashed forward in a single-handed assault on the enemy machine gun position. Hurling hand grenades with amazing accuracy, he completely destroyed the enemy machine gun. Captain Hill so inspired his men by this act that they renewed their attack with such savagery as to force the enemy from the hill. The gallantry displayed by Captain Hill reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.