Sponsored by:

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 Technical Sergeant [then Sergeant] Edwin J. Schaeffer (ASN: 35713780), United States Army, for gallantry inaction against the enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 August 1944, in France. While pursuing an enemy soldier, Sergeant Schaeffer suddenly encountered a group of approximately twenty of the enemy. Upon seeing him, the enemy immediately opened fire with machine pistols and then turned to run. Sergeant Schaeffer replied with a burst of fire from his automatic rifle and the enemy hit the ground. When Sergeant Schaeffer called on the group to surrender, an officer raised his hands and immediately the entire group gave themselves up. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Schaeffer, 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.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Regiment:

    119th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 22, 1945
    “Work Horse of the Western Front – The Story of the 30th Infantry Division” By Robert L. Hewitt

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Sergeant Edwin J. Schaeffer, United States Army, for heroic achievement in action on 22 January 1945, in Germany. When his platoon was disorganized due to intense enemy artillery fire, Sergeant Schaeffer, disregarding personnel safety, moved about among the men, organizing and coordinating their movements and encouraging them to move forward. Later, cut off from his platoon leader, he executed a successful tactical move reducing an enemy strongpoint and enabling his company to complete their advance.