Navy Federal Credit Union

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 (Infantry) Francois Xavier Therrien, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with an Infantry Company of the 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea, in 1951. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Therrien, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    21st Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 19, 1950

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 339 (April 25, 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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Francois Xavier Therrien, Jr. (ASN: 0-62658), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Waegwan, Korea, on 19 September 1950. During the assault crossing of the Naktong River as he led his platoon across the river extremely heavy enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire from the enemy entrenched on a high ridge line overlooking the crossing site, succeeded in pinning down the assaulting elements. First Lieutenant Therrien, aware of the necessity of securing the crossing site, exposed himself to the intense enemy fire with utter disregard for his own safety and roved up and down his platoon line, encouraging the men to continued the assault. He placed himself at the head of his platoon and personally led the assault on the enemy’s positions. His fearless attack inspired the men of his command to the highest possible combat efficiency. Their gallant assault into the intense enemy fire disorganized the enemy troops, inflicting heavy casualties and routed them form their dominating positions overlooking the crossing site. He immediately directed the securing of the ridge line and his actions were instrumental in the successful consolidation o First Lieutenant Therrien’s courageous actions reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Army.