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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Soldier’s Medal to Major (Infantry) Don M. Powers (ASN: 0-1309313), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action on 28 July 1953, in the vicinity of Ansan, North Korea. On that date, at approximately 1540 hours, an explosion occurred in an ammunition dump, causing several casualties. Major Powers immediately went to the scene of the explosion. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Major Powers assisted in searching for and evacuating the injured and dying from amidst the burning and exploding ammunition until he was certain that all casualties had been evacuated. Major Powers’ prompt and unhesitating action in the face of grave danger, undoubtedly saved the lives of several seriously wounded men. The heroic actions of Major Powers on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major (Infantry)

    Action Date:

    World War II

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major (Infantry) Don M. Powers (ASN: 0-1309313), United States Army, was awarded the Soldier’s Medal for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States.

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 14, 1953
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 346 (August 29, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Major (Infantry) Don M. Powers (ASN: 0-1309313), United States Army, for heroic achievement as a member of Headquarters Company, (then Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion), 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Major Powers distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 14 July 1953, in the vicinity of Mayon-ni, North Korea. On that date, Company C was being subjected to a devastating concentration of hostile artillery and mortar fire. Major Powers, the Battalion Commander, went forward to check on the situation and render words of encouragement to his men. Although completely exposed to the imminent danger, and on one occasion being knocked against the side of the communications trench from the concussion of an exploding round, he moved from bunker to bunker issuing words of advice to his men. Not until the barrage had lifted and all the casualties had been evacuated, did he leave the forward positions. Major Powers’ performance of bravery throughout combat operations served as an inspiration to his comrades and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.