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 Private First Class Ralph P. Corbin (ASN: 33554920), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 350th Infantry Regiment, 88th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Mt. Cianelli, Italy, on 11 May 1944. Company B was advancing up the slope of this hill when it was halted and pinned down by a deadly hail of machine gun bullets, fired from enemy concrete pillboxes. Private First Class Corbin volunteered to attack and silence the foremost pillbox that was firing on his platoon so that the others could be flanked and destroyed. Disregarding the intense and murderous mortar shells and small arms fire directed at him, and with utter disregard for his own life, he crawled on his hands and knees to the first pillbox, climbed on top of it, continuously being exposed to fierce enemy fire, and tossed one hand grenade into the small air vent. The explosion seriously wounded one of the gun crew and drove out three others; as they emerged, they were killed by the platoon. Private First Class Corbin then threw a phosphorous grenade to complete the work of clearing the pillbox. This valorous deed on the part of Private First Class Corbin permitted the platoon to advance to the next row of pillboxes, which they flanked and knocked out. Without the heroic act of Private First Class Corbin, the platoon would have been pinned down indefinitely, its advance held up, and probably suffered heavy casualties in the attempt to nullify the defensive value of the pillboxes. The exceptional initiative, conspicuous gallantry, and outstanding valor displayed by Private First Class Corbin was an inspiration to all who witnessed the action and exemplified the heroic qualities of the American soldier.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Division:

    88th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 88th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)

    (UNCONFIRMED – Citation Needed): Ralph P. Corbin, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 88th Infantry Division during World War II.