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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Staff Sergeant] Gerald F. Searle (ASN: 0-2055175), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When the officers of his organization were wounded during an attack n strong enemy positions, Lieutenant Searle quickly assumed command and reorganized his men. Then, despite a painful wound, he brilliantly led them through intense artillery, machine gun, and mortar fire in a successful attack. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Action Date:

    September 5, 1956
    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 33 (June 24, 1957)

    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 Captain (Infantry) Gerald F. Searle, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while on duty with the Weapons Committee, 2d Field Artillery Training Regiment, The United States Army Center, Field Artillery, at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas on 5 September 1956. Following the crash of two civilian dump trucks which immediately burst into flames, Captain Searle voluntarily, without hesitation and without regard to the great personal danger to himself, proceeded into the flaming wreckage of one vehicle to extricate a seriously injured victim from the cab. The gasoline tank had been ruptured in the accident and created grave danger in that it might explode causing death or serious injury to both individuals. After removing this seriously injured victim and ascertaining that there were no more survivors he placed him and another casualty who had been thrown clear of the truck on his vehicle and drove them to the hospital for emergency treatment. Captain Searle’s fortitude and courageous action in the face of extreme personal danger reflects the highest credit on himself and the United States Army.