Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 29, 1950

    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 93 (April 11, 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) Dean E. Hutter (ASN: 0-38210), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 29 November 1950, near Majon-ni, Korea, Company A was ambushed in a narrow mountain pass by a numerically superior enemy force who had concealed positions on the high ground to the front and flanks. This murderous, instantaneous barrage of automatic and small arms fire caught Captain Hutter in an exposed position along with his radio operator. Radio communications were destroyed in the initial volley of fire. Although cover was only a distance of thirty yards, he, with complete disregard for his personal safety, remained in this exposed area to communicate with his platoons by visual means, until his company had been properly deployed. Alone and exposed to the devastating enemy fire, Captain Hutter effectively directed the fire of his company which eventually neutralized much of the enemy fire. Immediately after dark he received orders to withdraw. Under control of his executive officer, the majority of his company commenced withdrawing. Captain Hutter, with a small group of men, remained behind in order to search for and evacuate the dead and wounded. Only after completion of this task did he withdraw. As he fell back he destroyed all vehicles and equipment which could not be evacuated to prevent their falling into enemy hands. He remained until this had been accomplished and was the last person to leave the area. As a result of his actions casualties were kept to a minimum, and equipment was prevented from falling into enemy hands. Captain Hutter’s devotion to duty, expert leadership, and conspicuous gallantry reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.