Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Division:

    87th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 1, 1945

    Headquarters, 87th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 259 (1945)

    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 Donald Meisel (ASN: 42135894), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 87th Infantry Division, in action in Andler, Belgium, on 1 February 1945. While the platoon to which Private Meisel was assigned was attacking Andler, five men were wounded by enemy mortar and sniper fire. After two of his comrades had been killed in an attempt to get the wounded under cover, Private Meisel of his own volition, crept from cover four times to drag four wounded men to shelter. On his fifth trip, Private Meisel was hit by sniper fire and was fatally wounded. The total disregard for his own safety and the extraordinary concern for the welfare of his comrades displayed by Private Meisel reflect the highest traditions of the United States Army.