Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    November 28, 1950

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Dana B. Cashion (MCSN: 0-49919), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Commander of Company G, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 8 November 1950. When a hostile force of estimated battalion strength succeeded in overrunning two platoons and occupied the high ground overlooking the battalion command post, Second Lieutenant Cashion fearlessly exposed himself to heavy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire to lead his platoon in an attack against the right flank of the position while the enemy continued to lay down a barrage against the command post and against friendly supporting weapons from within a distance of fifty yards. Although seriously wounded by a hostile hand grenade, he staunchly refused medical attention and continued to expose himself to enemy fire to move from man to man, shouting orders and words of encouragement and directing and controlling the fire of his unit in the darkness until the attackers were driven from the high ground. Positioning his men to defend against further onslaughts, he continued to risk his own life, refusing to submit to medical attention until the following day when he was assured that the enemy would not launch further attacks against his sector. His forceful leadership, heroic fighting spirit and courageous efforts in the face of heavy odds served as an inspiration to all who observed him, and reflect the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant Cashion and the United States Naval Service.