Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant]

    Division:

    11th Airborne Division

    Action Date:

    June 24, 1945

    Headquarters, 11th Airborne Division, General Orders No. 184 (December 17, 1945)

    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 Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Samuel E. Thompson (ASN: 34602598), United States Army, for heroism on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 24 June 1945. During an aerial re-supply mission of ammunition, rations, and equipment, a bundle of ammunition hit the ground and the impact set off the 75-mm. shells that were packed therein. Simultaneously a parachutist hit the ground approximately twenty feet from the explosions. Seeing that the man was stunned by his landing, Staff Sergeant Thompson, who realized that the spasmodic explosions indicated the possibility of a full scale explosion, with complete disregard for his own life, ignored shrapnel and concussion and rushed to the aid of the parachutists and pulled him to safety. Immediately after removing he dazed man, the entire container exploded with devastating effects. Staff Sergeant Thompson’s initiative and courage undoubtedly save the parachutist’s life. His heroism is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.