Navy Federal Credit Union

Private First Class George T. Walden (ASN: ER-38465343), United States Army, was held as a Prisoner of War after he was captured during the Korean War on 13 February 1951 and was held until his release on 22 August 1953 after the signing of the Armistice.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    13th Engineer Combat Battalion

    Division:

    7th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 13, 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 George T. Walden (ASN: ER-38465343), United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy while serving with the 13th Engineer Combat Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, in action near Hoengsong, Korea, 13 February 1951. Private First Class Walden was en route with his platoon to an assembly area when they were ambushed by the enemy and subjected to intense small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire. Private First Class Walden, a 50 caliber machine-gunner, was manning his gun when the platoon was ambushed, and under his cover fire, the remainder of the men dismounted and carried the wounded to safety. Private First Class Walden voluntarily and fearlessly stayed with his weapon despite the withering fire directed at him. Although his position atop the truck was illuminated by burning vehicles, he continued his fire until his gun was put out of action by a direct hit from an enemy machine gun. He then attempted to repair the gun but was seriously wounded in the accomplishment of his mission. The gallantry displayed by Private First Class Walden on this occasion resulted in saving many lives and reflects great credit on himself and the military service.