Navy Federal Credit Union

Myles O’Toole received his theological training in Teutopolis, Illinois, and in Hinsdale, Illinois. He studied philosophy at Our Lady of the Angels Seminary in Cleveland, Ohio. He was ordained a Catholic priest of the Franciscan Order of the St. Louis (Missouri) Province. He served as assistant pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, from 1938 until 1943, at which time he volunteered for military service. He was commissioned a U.S. Army chaplain, serving for several months with the 169th Infantry Regiment in New Guinea, and then in the offensive to re-take the Philippine Islands. He was killed in action on January 19, 1945, during the Philippine Campaign.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Chaplain’s Corps)

    Regiment:

    169th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    43d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 19, 1945

    Headquarters, 43d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 84 (April 10, 1945)

    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 Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) Myles Francis O’Toole (ASN: 0-513309), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a chaplain with the 169th Infantry Regiment, 43d Infantry Division, in the vicinity of Sison, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 19 January 1945. Chaplain O’Toole, Catholic Chaplain attached to an infantry battalion during operations, was a constant source of inspiration to the men about him. His courageous determination in the performance of duties throughout the campaign was a comfort to the wounded men. On one occasion when the battalion was being shelled by heavy enemy artillery fire, Chaplain O’Toole was seriously wounded in the shoulder. By his own choice, he remained at the evacuation point which was under artillery fire until all wounded had been evacuated. While waiting he received two more wounds, the last proving fatal. Chaplain O’Toole’s constant example of devotion to God and country, and his unselfish sacrifice contributed greatly to the high state of morale of the battalion. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Chaplain O’Toole, 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.