Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 7, 1951

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 85 (April 22, 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 Captain (Infantry) Paul L. Hopkins (ASN: 0-1304217), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 7 January 1951 in the vicinity of Wonju, Korea. The battalion command post was surrounded and attacked by an estimated two companies of enemy. Under extremely heavy automatic weapons and grenade fire, he quickly organized a defensive group and deployed the troops in the best firing positions. When ammunition for his men was low, he dashed through a line of the attacking enemy to an ammunition truck parked almost 200 yards from the command post and returned through the hostile forces with a case of hand grenades. Throughout the firefight, he remained exposed to the enemy fire with complete disregard for his personal safety, encouraging his men by his bravery under fire. His courageous actions were largely instrumental to the successful defense of the command post area. The gallantry displayed by Captain Hopkins reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.