Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 3, 1951

    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 522 (November 18, 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 Corporal Roy Spanower (ASN: ER-12303704), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 3 October 1951, while attacking enemy positions on Hill 400, Company G sustained numerous casualties under the withering hostile fire. Corporal Spanower, a radio operator with the First Platoon, realizing the need for more firepower, voluntarily picked up the automatic rifle of a fallen comrade and joined in the assault. In addition to effectively utilizing the weapon, Corporal Spanower continued to receive and transmit messages over his radio, maintaining the vital communications. Although wounded while so engaged, he refused medical treatment until the objective had been seized and secured. The gallantry, initiative, and courage displayed by Corporal Spanower reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.