Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    Foreign

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel

    Division:

    Ethiopian Army

    Action Date:

    May 20, 1953

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 53 (July 9, 1954)

    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 Woldeyohannes Shitta, Ethiopian Army, for gallantry in action as Commander, Ethiopian Expeditionary Force in Korea, in action near Chorwon, Korea, on 20 May 1953. The enemy made a two-company attack in the “Outpost Yoke” sector defended by a company of Ethiopian Infantry. Realizing that the enemy attack was of an intense nature, Colonel Shitta personally took command of the sector. He supervised and organized all organic supporting weapons. In addition he requested and adjusted artillery fire, at one time bringing barrages on his own position. Throughout the period of battle Colonel Shitta was in view of the enemy and was fired on numerous times. His presence in the area and his clear thinking under heavy enemy fire was a source of great inspiration to all members of his command. Encouragement was radiated by him, not only by his words but by his active participation in the defense of the assaulted area. His personal command and steadying influence was a major factor in the successful repulse of the enemy attack. The gallantry displayed by Colonel Shitta reflects the greatest credit on himself and the military service of the Empire of Ethiopia.