Navy Federal Credit Union

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Robert J. Truax, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company A, 13th Engineer Combat Battalion, in action against the enemy near Hoengsong, Korea, on 12 February 1951. When his unit was ambushed, after building an escape route for a task force which was withdrawing, under heavy fire Corporal Truax saved many wounded men and treated them, until he collapsed from his own wounds. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Corporal Truax, 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

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    13th Engineer Combat Battalion

    Division:

    7th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 12, 1951

    Headquarters, 7th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 395 (August 11, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Robert J. Truax, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 13th Engineer Combat Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Hoengsong Korea, on 12-13 February 1951. On these dates, the company had completed construction of an escape route for a task force which was withdrawing to avoid an enemy encircling movement. Corporal Truax, a medical aid man, was with the rear element of the enemy force. Immediately, the column was halted and a defense established. The enemy made several fanatic charges at the column and subjected it to an intense barrage of small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire. Corporal Truax constantly Exposed himself to the withering enemy fire, (seeking?) the wounded and carrying them to cover where he administered medical treatment. While doing this, he was seriously wounded (two bullets in the head), but with complete disregard for his personal safety, he remained at his task until he collapsed. Due to his unfailing devotion to duty and regard for his comrades while faced with great danger , many wounded were given prompt treatment and were evacuated safely. The gallantry displayed by Corporal Truax reflects great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.