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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Technician Fourth Grade Yeiichi Kuwayama (ASN: 32013547), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States with the Medical Detachment, 442d Regimental Combat Team, in the United States, Italy and France from 15 April 1943 to 1 August 1945. Throughout the strenuous training period in the continental United States and in combat in Italy and in France, Technician Fourth Grade Kuwayama repeatedly displayed a deep concern for the health and general welfare of his fellow soldiers. On innumerable occasions he completely disregarded his personal safety to rescue and administer first aid to his comrades. Technician Fourth Grade Kuwayama’s unselfish devotion to duty, untiring efforts, and his valorous conduct in combat, won for him the admiration and respect of the officers and enlisted men of the entire company, and reflect the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Technician Fourth Grade

    Regiment:

    442d Regimental Combat Team

    Division:

    SEVENTH U.S. Army

    Action Date:

    October 29, 1944
    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 28 (February 2, 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 Technician Fourth Grade Yeiichi Kuwayama (ASN: 32013547), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 442d Regimental Combat Team, in action near Biffontaine, France, on 29 October 1944. Observing a comrade severely wounded and lying fully exposed to intense hostile fire, Technician Fourth Grade Kuwayama, with utter disregard for his own safety, quickly left his sheltered position and crawled toward the injured man. Although he received a shrapnel wound in the head and was partially blinded by his own blood, Technician Fourth Grade Kuwayama reached his fallen comrade and calmly administered first aid to his comrade. He then dragged the wounded man to safety through a hail of bursting mortar shells and machine gun fire. Technician Fourth Grade Kuwayama’s complete disregard for personal safety, and undaunted bravery exemplify the finest traditions of the Army of the United States.