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 Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Armor) Henry H. Chatfield (ASN: 0-456081), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 66th Armored Regiment, 2d Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 22 and 23 November 1944, in Germany. With only 7 tanks remaining after 6 days of heavy fighting and supported by one rifle company, Captain Chatfield launched a coordinated infantry-tank attack against a strongly entrenched and reinforced German battalion. Constantly exposing himself to artillery, mortar, and rifle fire, he executed a daring double envelopment with his meager force which resulted in the capture of 95 Germans and the killing or wounding of many others. On numerous occasions, he deliberately exposed himself to heavy fire, forcing the enemy to disclose their positions, thus enabling his tanks and infantry troops to destroy innumerable hostile strongpoints. Captain Chatfield’s intrepid leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 2d Armored Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Armor)

    Regiment:

    66th Armored Regiment

    Division:

    2d Armored Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 2d Armored Division, General Orders No. 20 (1944)

    (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 Captain (Armor) Henry Houston Chatfield (ASN: 0-456081), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 66th Armored Regiment, 2d Armored Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations during 1944. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Armor)

    Regiment:

    66th Armored Regiment

    Division:

    2d Armored Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 2d Armored Division, General Orders No. 1 (1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Armor) Henry Houston Chatfield (ASN: 0-456081), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 66th Armored Regiment, 2d Armored Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations during 1944. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.