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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 Captain (Infantry) William W. Druckenmiller (ASN: 0-1290918), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 August 1944, in France. Captain Druckenmiller was assigned to duty with an infantry organization engaged in repulsing a vigorous enemy counterattack. During the attack many enemy tanks overran friendly positions. Captain Druckenmiller and a group of his comrades crawled over open terrain and through exposed to enemy fire from mortars, artillery, and small arms, they destroyed an enemy tank which threatened the command post. The daring, personal courage, and aggressive initiative displayed by Captain Druckenmiller reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    117th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 22, 1945
    “Work Horse of the Western Front – The Story of the 30th Infantry Division” By Robert L. Hewitt

    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 Captain (Infantry) William W. Druckenmiller (ASN: 0-1290918), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Belgium, on 22 January 1945. When the advance of his company was held up by two enemy tanks with supporting infantry, Captain Druckenmiller armed himself with a bazooka and made his way through a completely exposed area to within fifty yards of the enemy tanks. Despite being subjected to intense fire from the tanks and infantry, Captain Druckenmiller fired five rounds at the tanks causing them to withdraw along with the enemy infantry. The outstanding courage and heroism of Captain Druckenmiller in successfully repulsing the attack prevented further casualties to his company. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Druckenmiller, 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.