Navy Federal Credit Union

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 pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Platoon Sergeant Janos Schalavin (ASN: RA-13657947), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Platoon Sergeant Schalavin distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions in connection with the military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 23 November 1967, while serving with Company C, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). On the above date, Company C was given the mission of assaulting the right sector of Hill 875 near Dak To, while in contact with a well fortified North Vietnamese Army battalion. As the company moved forward, it came under heavy automatic weapons mortar fire. Sergeant Schalavin constantly exposed himself to deadly fire while giving orders and repositioning his men for the conflict. When confronted with an enemy sniper who was hiding in a forward foxhole, Sergeant Schalavin made his way to an advantage position where he personally killed the sniper who was shooting his men. While moving forward, the platoon was hit by heavy enemy mortar fire and sustained a direct hit on one of the squads which caused many causalities. Sergeant Schalavin regrouped his men and had them lay down a deadly base of suppressive fire to keep the enemy down and allow movement of the wounded men. Sergeant Schalavin ran to the wounded men, assisted in their emergency first aid treatment and supervised their evacuation to a safer area. He then ordered his men to move out and continue the assault. During a second mortar attack they were more fortunate and lost fewer men, for Sergeant Schalavin never ceased exposing himself to direct the firing and positioning of his men. When still another concentration of enemy mortar fire was directed at the advancing element of Sergeant Schalavin’s platoon, he called in the location of the enemy mortars. Within seconds, the mortars were silenced by friendly 81 millimeter mortars. Sergeant Schalavin again rallied his men for the final assault. His quick actions and complete disregard for his own safety were directly responsible for saving many lives and contributed greatly to the success of the entire mission. His devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Awards Received