Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    9th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 20 – 27, 1950

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 49 (February 24, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Bonifacio Rodriguez (Rodriquez) (ASN: RA-18224276), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Medical Company, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy from 20 November 1950 to 27 November 1950, in the Kunu-ri area, Korea. During that period, Private Rodriguez was the only aid man attached to a rifle company which was assaulting enemy positions along the Chongchon River. The company suffered heavy casualties, but in spite of constant enemy fire to which he was exposed he rendered medical treatment to all the wounded. On 20 November 1950, the company launched an attack against an enemy-held hill and during the advance sustained several casualties. Two members of the leading assault platoon fell seriously wounded and were lying exposed to the unrelenting hostile fire approximately 150 yards to the company’s front. Undaunted by the vicious enemy fire and thinking only of his comrades, Private Rodriguez dashed into the fire-swept terrain to the side of the wounded and administered first aid to them. On 27 November 1950, the company again attacked enemy-held high ground against fanatical resistance and again suffered serious casualties. Private Rodriguez was ever-present whenever there was a casualty to be treated. His calm, fearless behavior and his solicitude for the wounded were a source of great inspiration and pride to the company, and contributed immeasurably to the high morale of the men who knew he would come to their aid no matter what danger befell them. On 27 November 1950, as he assisted a wounded comrade, he was struck by enemy fire and fell mortally wounded. The indomitable spirit and devotion to his fallen comrades displayed by him during this period reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.