Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Hospitalman

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    May 9, 1952

    Commanding General, 1st Marine Division (Reinforced) FMF: Serial 21161 (July 23, 1952)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Hospitalman Lawrence S. Katz (NSN: 2784189), United States Navy, for heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company in Korea on 9 May 1952. While in a no-duty status due to a previous wound received in action on 4 May, Hospitalman Katz obtained permission to accompany a platoon on a combat patrol on 9 May 1952. The patrol was taken under a heavy mortar and artillery barrage and received several casualties. He immediately went to work administering first aid. During this action he was wounded by an enemy concussion grenade, but refused evacuation and continued with his treatment of the casualties for over three hours. During this period, infiltration was active and he helped set up a perimeter around the wounded. When not actually treating a casualty, he fought off the enemy with an automatic rifle. His courageous actions and steadfast devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Katz’s courage and initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Hospitalman

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    May 4, 1952

    Commanding General, 1st Marine Division (Reinforced) FMF: Serial 22250 (August 1, 1952)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Lawrence S. Katz (NSN: 2784189), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 4 May 1952. Hospitalman Katz, serving as Company Corpsman on a patrol deep in enemy territory, displayed outstanding courage and professional skill in the performance of his duties. Continually exposing himself to intense enemy automatic weapons, artillery, mortar and grenade fire, he calmly treated and evacuated wounded. Several times he shielded the wounded with his own body, sustaining wounds himself to save his comrades from further injury. He continued to treat the wounded until all had received medical attention, then assisted in their evacuation. His fearless initiative and selfless devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who served with him. Hospitalman Katz’s heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.