Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Division:

    U.S.S. LSM-193

    Action Date:

    May 11, 1945

    Commander Amphibious Forces Pacific: Serial 00735 (September 28, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Donald E. Boynton, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 11 May 1945, as Commanding officer of the U.S.S. LSM-193, a close-in fire support ship, during the assault on Okinawa Shima. During an extended air attack by a large force of enemy suicide planes, he, with exceptional skill and courage caused his ship to deliver such accurate and effective anti-aircraft fire that three of the attacking planes were shot down and five others were damaged. After a friendly ship had been hit by a suicide plane and raging fires ensued, he demonstrated outstanding seamanship and valor, in the face of exploding ammunition, by coming alongside the stricken vessel, extinguishing the fires and towing it to a place of safety. By his exceptional coolness under fire and devotion to duty, he contributed materially in saving the stricken ship and the rescuing of numerous survivors. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.