Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    1st Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    September 18, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class Howard W. Jenkins (NSN: 8729558), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Hospital Corpsman attached to Company K, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on enemy-held Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 18 September 1944. Stationed on the front lines under heavy hostile mortar and artillery fire and where there were numerous casualties, Petty Officer Jenkins ran through the barrage to the aid of the wounded and, with shells dropping all around him, coolly rendered the necessary first aid and took charge of the evacuation. Although one shell fell close enough to him to afflict him with a concussion, Petty Officer Jenkins continued to work until all casualties had been treated and evacuated. After collapsing, he was evacuated to the rear. During the entire period in which his unit was in the assault, Petty Officer Jenkins distinguished himself again and again by administering first aid in full view of the enemy and under hostile fire. By his devotion to duty, Petty Officer Jenkins was responsible for the saving of many lives; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.