Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant

    Regiment:

    7th Cavalry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division

    Action Date:

    August 21, 1950

    Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division, General Orders No. 13 (January 18, 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), [then Second Lieutenant Francis B. Wilson (ASN: 0-2208230), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy on 21 August 1950 while serving with Company M, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action near Taegu, Korea. While his recoilless rifle platoon was firing to break up an enemy attack supported by heavy artillery concentrations, Lieutenant Wilson and several comrades were seriously wounded by an enemy tree burst. Disregarding the intense pain of a leg wound, Lieutenant Wilson refused to be evacuated, but crawled courageously through the enemy barrage to a friendly platoon near his position to get aid for his wounded men. After directing the evacuation of his comrades, Lieutenant Wilson attempted to return to his position but collapsed from loss of blood and was evacuated while unconscious. His selfless behavior and devotion to duty saved the lives of several men and possible capture of a friendly mortar platoon. Lieutenant Wilson’s gallantry reflects great credit on himself and the military service.