Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Eugene A. Siegel (MCSN: 0-8513), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Quartermaster of the Second Amphibian Tractor Battalion, Fifth Amphibian Corps, Firth Marine Force, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 20 and 21 November 1943. Placed in command of several amphibian tractors during landing operations on D-Day, Captain Siegel fearlessly braved the enemy’s shattering barrages to direct the perilous advance. With several members of his tractor crews killed or wounded, he repeatedly led his own vehicle to the beach loaded with troops, ammunition and other necessary supplies and, on the return trip, evacuated casualties from the danger area. By his forceful and inspiring leadership, his outstanding fortitude and daring aggressiveness in the face of tremendous odds, Captain Siegel contributed materially to the establishment of the initial beachhead and to the success of our forces in capturing this vital stronghold. His unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received