Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Charles R. Wittig (ASN: ER-12167146), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Namch’i-hyon, Korea, on 7 February 1951. His company was attacking Hill 392, held by an estimated reinforced enemy company, with the mission of breaking the enemy defenses to the approaches to the Han River. The company was suffering many casualties, for the enemy positions were extremely difficult to locate and the enemy was exercising excellent fire discipline. Realizing that prompt actions was imperative if the attack could succeed he voluntarily moved off to the left of his platoon and well forward of the attacking line. There, with complete disregard for safety, he exposed himself completely to enemy fire in order to locate enemy positions and point them out to his platoon with fire. His exposure immediately drew enemy attention and fire and the enemy’s positions were thus prematurely unmoved. Position after position was knocked out by the company’s concentrated fire. Still he remained exposed to the most intense enemy fire, pointing out new positions to his comrades. Due to his selfless courage,. The platoon proceeded to nearly the summit of the hill with very light casualties when he was struck by machine gun fire. The impact knocked him almost 150 feet down the side of the steep hill, but he climbed to his feet and would have rejoined his men to continue his self-appointed mission had he not been ordered to report immediately to the rear for medical attention . Sargant Wittig’s courageous actions, devotion to duty, and exemplary leadership reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Army Infantry.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Regiment:

    19th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    Korean War

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 315 (1951)

    (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 Charles R. Wittig (ASN: ER-12167146), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division in Korea. 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.