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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 Sergeant First Class Ernest S. Patton (ASN: RA-13128244), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 89th Medium Tank Battalion, 25th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 18 October 1950, near Hwang-ju, Korea, Sergeant First Class Patton was directing his tank through a hostile mine field during an assault on enemy emplacements. Although subjected to fire from two enemy tanks, he directed an effective counter barrage until the other tanks of the platoon were in firing position. He then dismounted, despite intense small arms and mortar fire, to guide his tank out of the exposed field. Later in the engagement when the platoon leader’s tank was disabled, he placed his vehicle between the disabled tank and the enemy to cover the displacement of the tank crew. Sergeant First Class Patton’s courage, leadership and selfless devotion to duty contributed materially to the achievement of the unit mission and reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant First Class

    Batallion:

    89th Medium Tank Battalion

    Division:

    25th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 28, 1950
    Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 207 (April 13, 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 Sergeant First Class Ernest S. Patton, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 89th Medium Tank Battalion, 25th Infantry Division. On the night of 28 November 1950 near Yongbyon, Korea, Sergeant First Class Patton’s tank section was advancing to support friendly forces against a powerful hostile attack, Despite limited visibility and the lack of infantry, he mounted the rear deck of his tank and led the section cross-country in an attempt to break through hostile lines and join the beleaguered unit. Although subjected to intense small arms and automatic weapons fire which damaged his machine gun and wounded him in the shoulder, he remained at this post and dispersed the encircling enemy with hand grenades. After reaching friendly lines, he directed a heavy volume of effective covering fire so that the infantry could displace to more tenable positions. Sergeant First Class Patton’s valorous leadership, determined spirit and unremitting devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on himself, his unit and the Armed Forces.