Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 25, 1950

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 84 (April 21, 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 Orville Kenneth Spicer (ASN: RA-25637129), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 25 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kujang-dong, Korea. Company G had launched an assault against an enemy-held hill and had succeeded in penetrating to within 30 feet of the crest. At this point the enemy subjected the assault elements to heavy automatic weapons and grenade fire and the company received orders to withdraw. Private Spicer, a rifleman, voluntarily and with complete disregard for his personal safety, remained behind to cover the withdrawal. In spite of the intense hostile fire and exploding grenades which the enemy hurled down the hill, he fearlessly moved from one vulnerable position to another, effectively engaging the enemy with his rifle fire. As a result of his heroic action, the company was able to evacuate its wounded and to effect an orderly withdrawal to new defensive positions. The gallantry and devotion to his comrades displayed by Private Spicer reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.