Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    3d Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    July 22, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Stephen Bela (MCSN: 367535), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Automatic Rifleman serving with the Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands, 22 July 1944. When a force of approximately twenty hostile infantrymen suddenly attacked from the rear, Private First Class Bela unhesitatingly launched a fierce, single-handed attack against the onrushing Japanese. Alternately hurling hand grenades and firing his automatic rifle, he succeeded in killing eight of the enemy, fatally wounding three others and in completely disorganizing the hostile assault before he was mortally wounded by Japanese fire. By his daring initiative and great personal courage in the face of grave peril, Private First Class Bela contributed materially to the success of our forces in this vital war area, and his valiant conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.