Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant [then Lance Corporal]

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    9th Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

    Action Date:

    April 16, 1968

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Lance Corporal] Michael John Fedorowicz (MCSN: 0-2347563), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a Radio Operator with Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 16 April 1968, Company C was directed to attack a North Vietnamese Army Unit which had pinned down another Marine Company by intense fire from its advantageous hilltop position near the Khe Sanh Combat Base. While assaulting the hill, Sergeant Fedorowicz was wounded in the hand. Undaunted, he continued to move toward the summit and, while so engaged, sustained additional wounds. Fully aware of his importance to his unit during this critical stage of the attack, he resolutely remained at the side of his Platoon Commander to relay details of the current tactical situation to higher headquarters and, subsequently, to guide MEDIVAC Helicopters to a landing zone. Upon attaining the crest of the hill, Sergeant Fedorowicz observed several seriously wounded Marines lying in proximity to a well-fortified enemy bunker complex. Seemingly oblivious to the hostile rounds impacting about him, he repeatedly rushed across the fire-swept terrain and dragged his wounded comrades to covered positions. Although suffering intense pain, he steadfastly refused to be medically evacuated. When the Marines were subsequently directed to maneuver to a more tenable location, he fearlessly took the lead and guided them to the new position. His heroic actions inspired all who observed him and undoubtedly were instrumental in saving the lives of several fellow Marines. Sergeant Fedorowicz’s indomitable courage, aggressive leadership, and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave personal dangers reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.