Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    148th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    37th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 21, 1945

    Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 48 (July 14, 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 Private First Class Walter R. Jones (ASN: 34059645), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Baguio, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 21 April 1945. When he observed a group of approximately twenty enemy soldiers moving to attack a newly captured hill overlooking the Irisan River Bridge, Private Jones, an automatic rifleman, rose to his feet with complete disregard for his own safety and, fully exposed against the skyline, opened deadly and accurate fire. He steadfastly held his ground, under the heavy enemy fire, killed two of them and drove the remainder back, completely disrupting their attempted attack. He was severely wounded in the chest by enemy fire and fell to the ground. Feigning death, he remained in his position and awaited the enemy’s approach. When the Japanese were within ten yards of him, with great effort, he raised himself and fired a long burst at the approaching enemy. The surprised enemy retreated once again in disorder leaving six more of their dead on the field. Private Jones’ courage and heroic determination to destroy the enemy despite his wounded condition, resulted in killing eight Japanese and eliminating the threat to his company’s position. His 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.