Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class [then Private]

    Batallion:

    80th Tank Battalion

    Division:

    8th Armored Division

    Action Date:

    March 31 & April 4, 1945

    Headquarters, 8th Armored Division, General Orders No. 24 (May 3, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class [then Private] Ralph V. Fralic (ASN: 11133204), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 80th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 31 March 1945 and 4 April 1945. A half-track vehicle loaded with ammunition was struck by fire and ignited. Parked nearby were six other vehicles, including three large ammunition trucks. Without regard for his own safety, Private First Class Fralic drove the vehicles to safety despite exploding ammunition from the burning vehicle. Later he dismounted from his tank under intense small arms and mortar fire to move vehicles out of a congested area, enabling his platoon to move into position. His actions, carried out voluntarily, reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.