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 (Armor) Edward Barney Quinn (ASN: 0-62377), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 72d Tank Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy from 7 to 14 September 1950 in the vicinity of Songjin-Ni, Korea. During this period Lieutenant Quinn, a platoon leader, led five tank-infantry patrols deep into enemy-held territory. On these patrols strong enemy resistance was frequently encountered and his unit was subjected to heavy mortar and small arms fire. On several occasions, while supporting rifle elements were attacking, he dismounted from his tank under heavy enemy small arms and mortar fire in order to coordinate the fires of his tanks with that of the infantry. Through the complete disregard for his personal safety in exposing himself to enemy fire when the situation required aggressive leadership, Lieutenant Quinn was largely responsible for the success of these patrols. His actions throughout this period were indicative of a high degree of devotion to duty and were an inspiration to all members of his platoon. The gallantry displayed on these occasions by Lieutenant Quinn reflects great credit upon himself and fully upholds the finest traditions of the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Armor)

    Batallion:

    72d Tank Battalion

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 31, 1950

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 147 (June 15, 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 (Armor) Edward Barney Quinn (ASN: 0-62377), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Service Company, (then Company A), 72d Tank Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 31 August 1950 in the vicinity of Yongsan, Korea. On that date a friendly platoon was completely surrounded by a large enemy force. Lieutenant Quinn immediately volunteered to go to the aid of the trapped platoon with his tank and crew. Although subjected to intense enemy small arms, mortar, anti-tank, and artillery fire, he drove his tank directly through the enemy encirclement until he reached the embattled platoon. Delivering effective and devastating fire from his tank weapons, he escorted the surrounded platoon to a position where it could again establish a solid line. The initiative, courage, and gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Quinn reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.