Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Joel Karsten Chase (ASN: 0-5358627), United States Army, for heroism in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Chase distinguished himself by valorous action on 3 June 1970, in the Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became engaged with a determined enemy force, with complete disregard for his own safety, he exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he moved forward to the point of heaviest contact and began placing a heavy volume of suppressive fire upon the insurgent forces. His actions were an inspiration to the other members of his unit and were instrumental in the successful completion of the mission. His display of personal bravery and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion (Airmobile)

    Regiment:

    5th Cavalry

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division

    Action Date:

    June 14, 1970
    Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), General Orders No. 15293 (August 19, 1970)

    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) Joel Karsten Chase (ASN: 0-5358627), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) in the Republic of Cambodia. Spotting two enemy soldiers he was warning his men and moving them to safety when the hostiles opened fire and he was wounded. Despite the wound, he deployed his men and neutralized the hostiles. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion (Airmobile)

    Regiment:

    5th Cavalry

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division

    Action Date:

    October 1969 – July 1970

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Joel Karsten Chase (ASN: 0-5358627), United States Army, for outstandingly meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. During the period October 1969 to November 1970 First Lieutenant Chase consistently manifested exemplary professionalism and initiative in obtaining outstanding results. His rapid assessment and solution of numerous problems inherent in a combat environment greatly enhanced the allied effectiveness against a determined and aggressive enemy. Despite many adversities, he invariably performed his duties in a resolute and efficient manner. Energetically applying his sound judgment and extensive knowledge, he has contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the United States mission in the Republic of Vietnam. His loyalty, diligence and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.