Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    386th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    97th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 8, 1945

    Headquarters, 97th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 14 (May 4, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Mettauer E. Davidson, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 386th Infantry Regiment, 97th Infantry Division, in action at Stein, Germany, on 8 April 1945. In attacking the town, Captain Davidson’s company was held up by strong fire from an enemy road block defended by automatic weapons and self-propelled guns. During the attack against his obstacle, Captain Davidson suffered severe wounds in both legs and his right arm. Refusing medical aid, he arranged for and personally adjusted the fire of his 60-mm. mortar section on the position. When this fire failed to silence the hostile defense, he obtained and adjusted the fire of an 81-mm. mortar platoon which successfully neutralized the obstacle and enabled his company to subsequently capture the town. Only after the defense of the obstacle had been reduced did he consent to receive medical treatment. Captain Davidson’s inspiring action and unselfish devotion to duty on this occasion reflect high credit upon himself and the Armed Forces.