Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Medical Corps)

    Division:

    Task Force Smith

    Action Date:

    July 5 – 7, 1950

    Headquarters, Far East Command, General Orders No. 6 (January 11, 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 (Medical Corps) Edwin L. Overholt (ASN: 0-60030), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at Osan and Ansong, Korea, during the period 5 July to 7 July 1950. Working in rugged mountainous terrain with improvised facilities, hampered by rain and under constant enemy fire, Captain Overholt undoubtedly saved the lives of many wounded soldiers. In all instances his care of battlefield casualties was characterized by exceptional skill, calmness and deep personal concern without regard for his own comfort and safety. When forced to withdraw from Osan Hill, Captain Overholt assisted in carrying the wounded over mountainous terrain for a distance of approximately forty miles. During this journey, he remained behind with several litter cases who could not be carried further, satisfying himself that every possible aid had been given to each of the wounded men before he rejoined the unit. Immediately upon reaching Ansong, Captain Overholt, without food or rest, assisted with an emergency operation on an American soldiers; and then he undertook to treat the wounded men of a unit that had lost its surgeon in combat. Captain Overholt’s professional skill and selfless devotion in caring for the wounded with complete disregard for the hazards of battle exemplify conduct that is in keeping with the highest traditions of military service.