Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    4th Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    March 5, 1969

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Michael C. Biehl (MCSN: 2353385), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 5 March 1969, Corporal Biehl’s unit was assaulting Hell 484 north of the Rockpile in Quang Tri Province when the Marines came under intense small arms, machine gun, and automatic weapons fire from a hostile fortification. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Biehl immediately deployed elements of his squad to each side of the bunker, and as his men provided covering fire, he fearlessly assaulted the enemy position. Upon reaching the bunker, he unhesitatingly threw two grenades into the aperture, killing the hostile soldiers inside the structure. With complete disregard for his own safety, he then proceeded into the emplacement and captured the enemy’s weapons. During the ensuing battle for the hill, Corporal Biehl repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire as he destroyed other fortifications and, despite having been painfully wounded, continued his determined efforts until the hill was secured. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk, Corporal Biehl upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.