Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant]

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 22, 1951

    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 322 (July 28, 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), [then First Lieutenant] Edward F. Irick, Jr. (ASN: 0-60791), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 22 May 1951, near P’ungam-ni, Korea, the lead elements of Company E were pinned down by intense automatic weapons and small arms fire while attacking a series of well-camouflaged enemy emplacements of the approaches to Hill 440. Captain Irick, company commander, personally organized and led a bayonet charge from the flank, successfully overrunning the hostile positions and enabling his company to continue the attack with a minimum of casualties. As the lead platoon approached the crest of the ridge, heavy enemy grenade and automatic weapons fire compelled the unit to displace, leaving the wounded. Realizing the necessity of evacuating the wounded man, Captain Irick again led a bayonet assault into the face of the intense fire. His exhibition of courage and confidence so inspired his men that the objective was stormed and secured. The gallantry, aggressiveness, and outstanding leadership displayed by Captain Irick reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.