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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Captain William Cararyle Airheart (MCSN: 0-38302), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of a Marine Infantry Company , Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF,, in action against the enemy on Hill 872, on 19 June 1951. Assigned the mission of assaulting the strategically important hill occupied by a numerically superior enemy force, he launched an attack upon the position. When the initial assault was halted by intense automatic weapons fire, Captain Airheart led his unit in a second attack, but after seizing the objective, was forced to withdraw by a fanatic enemy counterattack. Throughout the remainder of the day, he led repeated attacks on the hill, but each time was forced to withdraw. Re-organizing his company, he led a sixth assault, and by skillful maneuvering, succeeded in occupying the position and establishing an effective defense perimeter. The gallantry, aggressiveness and outstanding courage displayed by Captain Airheart on this occasion reflect great credit on himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Colonel

    Action Date:

    July 5, 1969 – June 1, 1972

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel William Cararyle Airheart (MCSN: 0-38302), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Director of Protocol for the Commander in Chief Pacific from 5 July 1969 to 1 June 1972. During this period, Colonel Airheart displayed superior management ability, sound judgment, keen perspective, and skilled diplomacy in protocol matters of important significance to the Pacific Command and to the nation. His contribution to the Pacific Command and to the United States is evidenced by the expert protocol assistance which he provided and coordinated in connection with the visits of Heads of State and other high-ranking government and military figures of the United States and foreign countries. Colonel Airheart’s recommendations, guidance, and support to the Commander in Chief Pacific were based on careful and extensive research and contributed effectively to the successful planning for these important visitors and for high-level conferences. His overall superb performance reflected great credit upon himself and the Pacific Command and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.