Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Batallion:

    31st Tank Battalion

    Division:

    7th Armored Division

    Action Date:

    August 14, 1944

    Headquarters, 7th Armored Division, General Orders No. 50 (September 16, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Winfred V. Hensley (ASN: 39302626), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company D, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of Courville, France, on 14 August 1944. An enemy 88-mm. anti-tank gun was causing considerable trouble in the vicinity of the town. Staff Sergeant Hensley, who was serving as light tank platoon sergeant, having, located the gun position, turned his tank toward it and charged. As a result of this conspicuous act of gallantry he lost his life, and insured the continuance of the advance with a minimum of casualties. In placing duty and country above his own life, Staff Sergeant Hensley merited for himself the undying admiration of his comrades. 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, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.