Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Carl David Vaughn (ASN: RA-13320465), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Chudong-Ni, Korea, on 1 January 1951. Corporal Vaughn’s company was ordered to move along a high mountainous ridge to cover the withdrawal of the 1st Battalion, which had been attacked by a numerically superior enemy force supported by intense artillery and mortar fire. As the company made its way along the tortuous route a large enemy force which had infiltrated during the preceding night opened fire with an extremely heavy concentration of machine guns and automatic weapons. Seeing that the company was pinned down by this fire and in grave danger unless this source of the enemy’s strength was silenced, Corporal Vaughn unhesitatingly decided to attack the enemy positions. With complete disregard for his own safety he moved forward, drawing on himself the full fury of the enemy’s fire and advanced, firing his rifle with great effect, inflicting many casualties and permitting the continued movement of his company. When last seen Corporal Vaughn was continuing his fearless advance upon the enemy’s position. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Corporal Vaughn, 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:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    19th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 1, 1951

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 153 (1951)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Corporal Carl David Vaughn (ASN: RA-13320465), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy in Korea while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.