Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 1, 1950

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 60 (September 30, 1950)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) George Tassey (ASN: 0-38346), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company D, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 1 September 1950, near Changyong, Korea. Between midnight on 31 August 1950 and 0600 hours 1 September 1950, the 1st Battalion of the 23d Infantry Regiment was attacked by a numerically superior enemy force, and due to their overwhelming numbers, the battalion was forced to withdraw. During this withdrawal, the defensive perimeter between Companies A and B, was pierced by a regiment of the enemy, creating a threat to the entire battalion. Captain Tassey, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, and in the face of murderous enemy fire, displayed great courage and traits of leadership by piecing together the struggling elements of four companies into a defensive perimeter which held until reinforcements could reach the position. After the reinforcements had arrived, he remained in a position exposed to the withering fire of the enemy, and supported the battalion until it could be withdrawn. That his composite unit of his was able to withdraw intact and with a minimum loss of life and equipment is due almost solely to Captain Tassey’s valorous actions on this occasion. His heroic and inspiring action on this occasion exemplify the highest traditions of the military service, and provide a lasting tribute to himself and to the Infantry.