Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Specialist Fourth Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    14th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    4th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 19, 1968

    Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 1165 (March 25, 1968)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Steven Richard Anderson (ASN: US-67073673), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Anderson distinguished himself while serving as a Squad Leader with Company D, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 19 February 1968, Company D was conducting a search and destroy operation west of DaNang in Quang Nam Province. Specialist Anderson’s element was moving along a hedgerow into a village when a noise was heard in the underbrush. Before evasive action could be taken, an enemy force opened fire, immobilizing the element. Realizing the need for immediate retaliation, Specialist Anderson left his position and engaged the hostile force by moving into the hedgerow on the flank of the enemy. His unexpected and daring act confused and distracted the enemy soldiers, causing them to shift their fire to him. As he neared the enemy position he was mortally wounded by the hostile fire. Through Specialist Anderson’s valorous actions and initiative, the remainder of his unit was able to maneuver into effective positions safely. Inspired by Specialist Fourth Class Anderson’s courageous efforts, the unit successfully routed the enemy from their positions. Specialist Fourth Class Anderson’s outstanding courage and unswerving devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.