Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Regiment:

    188th Glider Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    11th Airborne Division

    Action Date:

    March 10, 1945

    Headquarters, 11th Airborne Division, General Orders No. 139 (August 1, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Alfred P. DeSimone, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 188th Glider Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 10 March 1945. A platoon commanded by Staff Sergeant DeSimone, attacking the enemy, drew intense fire from a concealed position. Without hesitation, Staff Sergeant DeSimone moved forward under fire to locate the enemy position, although wounded n both legs. Staff Sergeant DeSimone, who lay in the direct line of enemy fire, waved back members of his platoon moving to aid him. He directed them to a covered route of approach though the enemy machine gun fire was concentrated on him. Immediately after issuing this order he was mortally wounded. The heroic action of this intrepid soldier was materially responsible for the success of his platoon in destroying the enemy position. The gallantry displayed by Staff Sergeant DeSimone, which cost him his life, exemplifies the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States.