Navy Federal Credit Union

(UNCONFIRMED – Citation Needed): Andrew H. Salois, 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    35th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 14, 1945

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 187 (December 22, 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 Private First Class Andrew H. Salois, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Talome, Mindanao, Philippine Islands, on 14 May 1945. An infantry company was assigned the mission of attacking an enemy strongpoint protecting an important position. To reach it, the forward elements of the company found it necessary to cross a clearing that provided neither cover nor concealment. The enemy allowed our men to proceed well into the clearing and then suddenly opened fire with heavy machine guns and rifles at close range. Private First Class Salois, a member of the forward element of the company, found himself in the center of the clearing. Realizing the urgency of the situation, Private First Class Salois, with total disregard for his personal safety, brought his automatic rifle to his shoulder and returned the enemy fire with fast and accurate fire of his own. By his bold action he drew the concentrated attention of the enemy upon himself, thus allowing the other members of his company to withdraw in safety. Private First Class Salois was killed before he could withdraw to a cover position. Private First Class Salois’ gallant actions and selfless devotion to his comrades and his duty serve as an inspiration to the men of the company.