Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    823d Tank Destroyer Battalion

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 2, 1944

    Headquarters, 30th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 84 (October 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 Private Robert N. Coons (ASN: 13202984), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 823d Tank Destroyer Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 September 1944, in France. Private Coons, and aidman, was attached to a mechanized reconnaissance troop of the 30th Infantry Division, who were holding a road block against the enemy. On the night of 2 September 1944, the road block was attacked by enemy armored vehicles supported by infantry. Because of the many casualties, Private Coons voluntarily went forward to administer aid to the wounded although subjected to heavy enemy fire. When he had completed his work, he was ordered to return to the rear, but requested that he be allowed to remain up front in the event that he was needed later on. The road block received another attack wounding several men including Private Coons. He still refused to be evacuated and despite is own wounds remained in a house in enemy-held territory, administering aid to the more seriously wounded until the next morning, when the area was cleared and additional aid arrived. The exceptional bravery, courage, and loyal devotion to duty displayed by Private Coons, reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.