Sponsored by:

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 Major (Infantry) Ancher F. Christensen, Jr. (ASN: 0-366280), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 30 January 1945, in the vicinity of Jebsheim, France. During the course of an attack, two rifle companies were left without officers. Upon hearing this, Major Christensen moved forward under heavy artillery and mortar fire and assumed command of the two companies. Through superior tactics and disregard for his personal safety, Major Christensen organized a successful battalion defense area, directing the fire of the battalion and deploying the two companies and the flanking units. His valor, determination and outstanding gallantry in this action are commensurate with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Major]

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    253d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    63d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 6, 1945
    Headquarters, 63d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 282 (June 25, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Major] Ancher F. Christensen, Jr. (ASN: 0-366280), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 6 April 1945, in the vicinity of Buchhof, Germany. Lieutenant Colonel Christensen moved his battalion observation post into the town just before the enemy launched a strong counterattack. The intense artillery and rocket fire soon set the whole town in flames. Despite the heavy fire, Lieutenant Colonel Christensen was throughout the town, personally organizing the defense, for all his company commanders were killed and most of the company officers were casualties. Lieutenant Colonel Christensen’s gallantry under fire is in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.