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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Francis L. Herbert (ASN: 0-514003), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 22 November 1944, in Germany. While First Lieutenant Herbert was leading his platoon against an enemy-held town they were subjected to intense small arms fire. First Lieutenant Herbert, advancing at the head of his platoon, shot and killed three German snipers before he himself was wounded in the left shoulder. Despite his wound, he immediately fired on and killed the sniper who had hit him. He then continued to lead his platoon forward against the enemy until so weakened by his wound that he fell to the ground. Although he was no longer able to advance with them, he gallantly continued to direct the movement of his platoon. The courage, stamina, and leadership displayed by First Lieutenant Herbert are worthy of the highest praise. The bravery, aggressive determination, and exemplary leadership exhibited by First Lieutenant Herbert reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    120th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 21, 1944

    Headquarters, 30th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 40 (February 28, 1945)

    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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Francis L. Herbert (ASN: 0-514003), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 21 October 1944, in Germany. First Lieutenant Herbert led his platoon in successfully capturing a portion of an enemy-held town. After the objective had been reached, the enemy launched a counterattack. In order to repulse the attack, First Lieutenant Herbert directed artillery fire close to his own positions in spite of the hazard to himself. The courage and devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Herbert reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.