Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Batallion:

    Marine Bombing Squadron 611 (VMB-611)

    Action Date:

    April 12, 1945

    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0120

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant John M. LeFevour (MCSN: 490053), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Navigator and Bombardier of a Patrol Bomber in Marine Bombing Squadron SIX HUNDRED ELEVEN (VMB-611), in action against enemy Japanese forces on Mindanao, Philippine Islands, on 12 April 1945. When his aircraft was damaged by intense enemy fire and the co-pilot was seriously injured, Staff Sergeant LeFevour extinguished a fire and then administered first aid to the co-pilot, thereby saving his life. After the plane crash-landed in the water, he endeavored to extricate a man trapped in the wreckage and, subsequently, stood guard over the wounded until they were rescued. His initiative, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.