Navy Federal Credit Union

Private First Class Joseph Dorshefski (ASN: RA-43044894), United States Army, was held as a Prisoner of War after he was captured during the Korean War on 12 February 1951 and was held until his successful escape and evasion and return to U.S. Military control on 24 February 1951.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (Korean War)

    Action Date:

    February 24, 1951

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Joseph Dorshefski (ASN: RA-43044894), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 24 February 1951, as a member of a detachment of wounded Prisoners of War attempting to reach friendly lines in Korea. While the group was resting in a farm house immediately to the rear of the Chinese lines, it was discovered that the three Communist guides who were to take them to friendly lines had deserted and the group, fearing discovery by the enemy or an attack by friendly planes, had to leave at daybreak. Private First Class Dorshefski, disregarding the extreme danger, willingly remained behind in the jeopardized position to aid a comrade who was weak from his wounds and unable to walk. Later in the day, when his comrade was stronger from rest, Private First Class Dorshefski assisted him across the river to friendly lines under fire from both enemy and friendly troops.