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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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert A. McDade (ASN: 0-1317324), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy from 1 to 3 March 1951 in the vicinity of Sanggo-ri, Korea. The 3d Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, was attacking a series of enemy-held hills and Company I was given the mission of seizing two of these strongly-fortified positions. Lieutenant McDade, at the head of his company, led the assault elements with forceful and brilliant leadership, setting an example of courageous conduct to his troops. After leading the company close to the hostile positions, Lieutenant McDade launched and led a final assault. In the face of a barrage of enemy hand grenades, he stormed the enemy entrenchments, overrunning and routing the enemy from their dug-in positions. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed by Lieutenant McDade reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    9th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 25, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 220 (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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert A. McDade (ASN: 0-1317324), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of Company I, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 25 May 1951, in the vicinity of Sogong-ni, Korea. On that day Company I was attacking well-entrenched enemy positions on Hill 800. Upon nearing the top of the hill the company was subjected to intense enemy fire. Realizing the best action was direct assault, Lieutenant McDade sent two squads forward and disregarding personal safety, he moved from point to point directing a covering fire for the attacking squads. The hill was taken but before the company could prepare defenses, the enemy launched a counterattack which forced the company to withdraw. Lieutenant McDade again, disregarding the intense fire, moved about in full view of the enemy, reorganizing and regrouping his company to prepare them for another assault. .Although the enemy fire increased, he personally led the attack, moving from point to point through the deadly fire directing and encouraging his men. His courageous actions were responsible for the successful completion of the mission with minimum casualties to his company and with heavy losses to the enemy. Lieutenant McDade’s gallantry reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.