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 Colonel Junro E. Wakayama, United States Army, for heroism above and beyond the call of duty on 11 September 2001 through 20 September 2001, when terrorists hijacked and crashed a commercial airliner into The Pentagon, Colonel Wakayama was at the forefront of the rescue effort. After evacuating his Pentagon office, he observed dense smoke and acutely sensed the catastrophe. He entered The Pentagon three times to search for injured people, leading three to safety on his first trip and several more on the second attempt, being repulsed by smoke and heat on his third try. The rest of the day and the following nine days, Colonel Wakayama assisted survivors with medical triage, intravenous solutions, and in other medical capacities on-site fore than 12 hours each day. The Distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Wakayama reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Army, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Awards Received