Navy Federal Credit Union

Frank “Rip” Reagan attended Auburn University in Alabama (1920-1923), where he was a top guard for the Auburn Tigers football team and chosen two times as All – Southern, in 1922 and 1923. He was also Captain of the Auburn Tigers football team in 1923. From 1924 to 1927, he was the head coach of the football team at Gadsden High School, in Gadsden, Etowah County, Alabama. He retired from the Army in 1955 as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    133d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    34th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 23 – June 4, 1944

    Headquarters, FIFTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 114 (July 19, 1944)

    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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Frank A. Reagan, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces at Anzio, Italy, from 23 May 23 1944 to 4 June 1944. Throughout the bitter battle to establish the beachhead at Anzio, Italy, Colonel Reagan constantly exposed himself to enemy observation and heavy fire to maintain personal contact with attacking elements of his command. When his men were unable to advance, Colonel Reagan personally rallied his forces and at the head of his formation, led them over a ridge pressing 300 yards against concentrated enemy machinegun and artillery fire, to force the Germans to fall back from their well-entrenched positions. His example of aggressive leadership and courage inspired his men to overcome powerful enemy resistance. Lieutenant Colonel Reagan’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.