Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) [then Major]

    Division:

    Military Assistance Advisory Group

    Action Date:

    February 11, 1951

    Headquarters, EIGHTH U.S. Army, Korea, General Orders No. 232 (April 23, 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 Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) [then Major] Samuel S. Urette (ASN: 0-378859), United States Army, for gallantry while serving as a member of the Military Assistance Advisory Group, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 11 February 1951, the 21st Republic of Korea Regiment was attacking along the Hoengsong – Hongchon Road, When at 2200 hours, the enemy, in overwhelmingly superior forces, counterattacked. Colonel Urette, senior advisor to the regiment, immediately went to the front lines and advised and assisted unit commanders until the tremendous volume of enemy mortar and small-arms fire made friendly positions untenable. Withdrawing with the troops, he established a command post in the vicinity of a United States unit, effected straggler collecting points, and although hostile mortar fire was falling in the area, set up a perimeter defense in conjunction with the United States unit. The following morning, the enemy, from positions on high ground, began placing heavy small-arms and automatic-weapons fire on the command post. Without regard for his personal safety, Colonel Urette organized a group of Republic of Korea soldiers and led them in a daring attack on the enemy , inflicting heavy casualties and forcing them to withdraw in disorder. His gallant and intrepid actions were an inspiration to the friendly units and reflect great credit on himself and the military service.