Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Division:

    80th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    December 23, 1944

    Headquarters, 80th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 64 (March 5, 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 French R. Craig (ASN: 35085281), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 23 December 1944 in Luxembourg. On that date, Private First Class Craig, a rifleman, volunteered to lead his platoon through the darkness into Heiderscheid, Luxembourg. Accompanied by two companions and armed with rocket launchers they advanced until fired upon by an enemy outpost supported by a tank. Eluding the guards Private First Class Craig directed rocket fire against the tank, destroying it and killing the crew. Although wounded Private First Class Craig continued with the attack and made it possible for his platoon to reach the town by routing many snipers from buildings. His courage, aggressiveness, and 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.