Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    1st Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    July 25 – 26, 1953

    Commanding General, 1st Marine Division: Serial 3780 (February 8, 1954)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Rupert D. Bowers, Jr. (MCSN: 1163401), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company I, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 25 – 26 July 1953. When an enemy force of approximately squad size attempted to overrun his position while he was occupying a command post, Corporal Bowers skillfully delivered devastating fire on the onrushing troops, killing several of the enemy and forcing the remainder to retreat and occupy a bunker on the friendly lines. Although knocked to the ground by a concussion grenade during an attempt to charge the enemy-held position, he quickly regained his feet, again stormed the bunker and succeeded in annihilating the enemy troops within. Rendered unconscious a second time by an enemy grenade while moving back to his unit, he later reorganized a group of men when he regained consciousness and fearlessly led his comrades through the trench line, destroying the remaining enemy soldiers. By his indomitable fighting spirit, fortitude and courageous devotion to duty, Corporal Bowers contributed in large measure to the defense of the position and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.