Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    3d Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

    Action Date:

    November 11, 1967

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Donald R. North, Jr. (MCSN: 2226598), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company D, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 11 November 1967, while conducting a search and destroy operation in an enemy-infested sector northeast of Con Thien during Operation KENTUCKY V, Company D came under intense enemy fire from a hostile force entrenched in a well-concealed bunker complex. During the ensuing fire fight, Corporal North repeatedly disregarded his own safety to gain vantage points from which to fire at the enemy. Alertly pinpointing a bunker which was inflicting casualties on his platoon, he began to crawl across the fire-swept terrain toward the hostile position. Although an enemy round hit and damaged his rifle, he remained calm and continued to advance until he reached the bunker. In full view of the enemy, Corporal North climbed on top of the bunker and, throwing a grenade into the aperture, destroyed the weapons and killed all four occupants. His bold actions inspired all who observed him and undoubtedly saved the lives of two Marines who were pinned down in the open. By his initiative, extraordinary courage, and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal North upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.