Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Corps of Engineers)

    Batallion:

    105th Engineer Combat Battalion

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 7, 1944

    Headquarters, 30th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 25 (July 23, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Gordon W. Brown (ASN: 0-366512), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 105th Engineer Combat Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 July 1944, in France. Captain Brown’s unit was assigned to the task of building a footbridge across a river which separated our men from the enemy to enable the crossing of infantry troops. From the beginning of these operations, the troops constructing this bridge were subjected to heavy enemy artillery, mortar, and small arms fire, which practically wiped out the assembly section. Confusion and lack of manpower at first hindered immediate operations, but with complete disregard for his personal safety, Captain Brown assisted in final assembly of the bridge by regaining control of the men, reorganizing and aiding working parties. His coolness and fine display of leadership under heavy enemy fire were a profound inspiration to his men. By his courageous efforts his mission was successfully accomplished. The actions of Captain Brown on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.