Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 13, 1944

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (January 5, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Gerald L. Garrett, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Breakneck Ridge, Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 13 November 1944. And infantry company was advancing int eh face of intense rifle and machine gun fire. As the forward elements reached the crest of the ridge and started to work down the reverse slope, they were pinned down by murderous machine gun fire from enemy emplacements that covered their exposed positions with crossfire. The day was clear and visibility was good, rendering excellent enemy observation and fire control upon our troops. At this time the company commander was seriously wounded, leaving the morale of the company at a low ebb in their desperate situation. Private First Class Garrett, disregarding the deadly enemy fire and the danger to his own life, moved from the slightly defiladed position he had found and succeeded in dragging his commanding officer to safety. His immediately application of first aid undoubtedly resulted in saving the life of the wounded officer. Private First Class Garrett’s heroism in this and a subsequent action, shortly thereafter, in which he was fatally wounded while attempting to rescue another wounded comrade, served as an inspiration to the men of his organization and reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (1946)

    (UNCONFIRMED – Citation Needed): Gerald L. Garrett, 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 24th Infantry Division during World War II.