Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Beverly Money Read, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with an Infantry Regiment of the 7th Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Read distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Sokkogae, Korea, on 7 July 1953. Early that morning Colonel Read moved to a strategic outpost during a battle to better control, organize, and direct counter-attacking United Nations troops. During the period which he remained on the position, Colonel Read’s actions were a constant inspiration to his men. He assisted in manning crew-served weapons, fired the rifle and carbine at enemy troops, and supervised operations in enemy infested trenches. He personally directed artillery fire on the hostile forces and on many occasions disregarded his own safety to aid in the evacuation of the wounded. When he was ordered to withdraw, Colonel Read personally directed the evacuation of the wounded and remained on the outpost until all of his men had successfully moved back. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Read on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Infantry)

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 1962 – April 1964

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 36 (November 5, 1964)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel (Infantry) Beverly M. Read, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from July 1962 to April 1964. [This award supersedes award of the Army Commendation Medal (First Oak Leaf Cluster) for meritorious service from 23 July 1962 to 30 April 1964 as announced in General Orders Number 51, Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, dated 5 May 1964.]