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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Michael Damkowitch, Jr. (ASN: 0-1308483), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 28 March 1945 in Germany. After crossing the Rhine River near Kastel, Germany, Captain Damkowitch, with only thirty-six men, organized a bridgehead and repelled an enemy counterattack. Even though no more of his company reached him he successfully captured his objective, taking one hundred seventy-three enemy prisoners. Captain Damkowitch’s courage, aggressive leadership, and sincere devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    317th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    80th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    December 24, 1944
    Headquarters, 80th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 48 (February 17, 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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Michael Damkowitch, Jr. (ASN: 0-1308483), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 24 December 1944 in Luxembourg. On that date, when it was discovered that the forward elements of a rifle battalion were isolated during the attack on Welscheid, Luxembourg, Lieutenant Damkowitch and a companion volunteered to infiltrate the enemy lines to lead the units to safety. Despite constant artillery and small arms fire, he and his comrade made contact and successfully returned to reunite the battalion without the loss of a single man. The courage, leadership, and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Damkowitch were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.