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 Technician Fifth Grade Oren C. Hooper (ASN: 37776602), United States Army, for heroism at Leaog, Luzon, Philippine Islands, while serving with the 11th Airborne Division on 13 August 1945. On 13 August 1945, at about 0330, while engaged in a move by air from Luzon, Philippine Islands, to Okinawa, the plane in which Technician Fifth Grade Hooper was a passenger burst into flames about one and one-half mile north of Leaog, Luzon, Philippine Islands. Technician Fifth Grade Hooper was thrown from the plane by the crash and sustained numerous brises and lacerations and was severely shaken. Then with the help of another soldier who had also been thrown from the plane, at great danger to himself, he extricated from the burning plane about eighteen soldiers, four of whom were already dead. While the other soldier went in search of medical aid, Technician Fifth Grade Hooper kept the soldiers, who were unable to help themselves, safely away from the blazing plane and administered first aid. Technician Fifth Grade Hooper’s actions show great courage, a high sense of loyalty, and reflect great credit on the military service.

Awards Received