Sponsored by:

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 Captain (Armor), [then Technician Fifth Grade] John L. Olow, III, United States Army, for gallantry in action in the vicinity of Frankfurt on Main, Germany, on 21 March 1945. As a member of Company D, 15th Tank Battalion, Captain Olow was performing duty as a gunner of the tank supporting Infantry units with artillery fire from an exposed position on a partially demolished bridge. Observing several Infantry casualties, he immediately left the safety of his tank and rushed across the bridge which was under intense enemy small arms and direct artillery fire. Without regard for his own personal safety, Captain Olow, voluntarily and alone, exposed himself to the heavy enemy fire and made repeated trips across the bridge; each time bringing a wounded Infantryman back to the friendly position. The unselfish heroism which he displayed in this courageous action is in the most cherished tradition of the United States Army, and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Armor)

    Action Date:

    January 18, 1966
    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 40 (July 22, 1970)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) John L. Olow, III, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Tuchelhausen, Germany on 18 January 1966. On that date, while following a convoy between Hohestadt and Tuchelhausen, Germany, he observed a tank leave the road and fall down a steep embankment. At the risk of his life, he immediately went to the aid of the two crewmen trapped by the tank. He freed one man who was pinned inside the driver’s compartment. He then re-entered the tank to turn off the engine, preventing a possible fire or explosion. He then attempted to free the other man from under the tank, digging first with his hands and later with a shovel, in spite of the obvious danger that the tank could slide down the embankment or fall forward onto its turret, crushing the injured man and himself. He continued to dig until the man was rescued. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of its service to his country, Colonel Olow has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.