Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Technical Sergeant Tadao Beppu (ASN: 30104856), United States Army, for heroism not in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, on 23 July 1944, in the vicinity of Santa Luce, Italy. When a heavy truck of a convoy turned completely over and trapped most of the 25 troops riding, Sergeant Beppu successfully directed the rescue and evacuation of every injured man with a minimum loss of time. Although he received a serious laceration and was suffering from concussion, he personally effected the rescue of 10 injured men. Although in need of immediate medical attention, he refused it until the last injured man was on the way to the hospital. While pulling the last three men from under the truck, he was exposed to the danger of the truck crushing him. The courageous actions displayed by Sergeant Beppu enabled the injured men to receive immediate medical attention.

Awards Received