Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Master Sergeant [then Sergeant First Class]

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Regimental Combat Team

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 18, 1951

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 13 (January 8, 1952)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant [then Sergeant First Class] Dennis D. Johnston (ASN: US-55022829), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 24th Infantry Division, in action near Inam-ni, Korea, on 18 October 1951. As his company assaulted strongly reinforced enemy positions, it met with exceedingly stubborn resistance. The friendly unit engaged an outpost at the base of the hill, driving the enemy back, and then advanced toward the ridge top. Upon reaching a knoll near the crest, the friendly soldiers were subjected to devastating enemy automatic weapons and grenade fire. Sergeant Johnston unhesitatingly exposed himself to the deadly enemy fire, charging boldly toward the critical enemy position and firing his weapon with extreme accuracy. He then unleashed a barrage of grenades and returned to friendly elements to replenish his depleted supply of ammunition. He advanced on the enemy bunker once again and destroyed it, thus enabling his comrades to continue the attack and ultimately secure the objective. Sergeant Johnston’s courageous action, tenacious determination and selfless devotion to duty reflect the greatest credit on himself and the U.S. Infantry.