Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    7th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 22, 1945

    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 622 (October 18, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Bernard F. Coday (ASN: 0-1998628), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces near Guemar, France, on 22 January 1945. When the fire of at least three machine guns at 200 yards range wounded his company commander, Second Lieutenant Coday left a position of comparative safety in order to rescue the officer. Crawling approximately 30 yards under knee-high streams of bullets, Second Lieutenant Coday reached the unconscious officer and then laboriously dragged him backwards about 50 yards to a position of cover. First Lieutenant Coday’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.