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) Erwin W. Micinski (ASN: 0-2005474), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near San-jung-ni, Korea, on 4 February 1951. His battalion was surrounded by an estimated force of two enemy regiments at the time his company received orders to withdraw. The withdrawal was progressing favorable when the lead platoon came under intense enemy fire and was pinned down. He was given the mission of passing through this platoon, seizing and clearing the next ridgeline which dominated the route to friendly units and had to be cleared so that remaining companies of the battalion would have a route to evacuate their wounded. He moved his platoon out in an attack formation, but when he reached the point where the other platoon was held up, his men also came under the same withering fire. Realizing that the ridge had to be taken at all cost he ordered his men to fix bayonets and then shouting to them to follow, charged up the slope shouting, “Banzai” and firing his carbine. His men, inspired by his gallant example overran the enemy positions, killing sixteen enemy in their foxholes, and inflicting approximately fifty casualties on the remainder as they fled down the reverse slope of the ridge. First Lieutenant Micinski’s courageous actions, devotion to duty, and exemplary combat leadership reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Army Infantry.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    Korean War

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 310 (1951)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Erwin W. Micinski, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 24th Infantry Division in Korea. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.