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 Corporal Fabian Nieves-Laguer (ASN: RA-30419666), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Corporal Nieves-Laguer distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces Chwanchan-dong, Korea, on 19 April 1951. On that date, Corporal Nieves-Laguer’s unit was given the mission of attacking and securing positions held by a well-entrenched and fanatically determined enemy force. Moving forward under intense enemy mortar and small arms fire, Corporal Nieves-Laguer, an automatic rifleman, repeatedly charged enemy dug-outs, clearing them of opposition and enabling the remainder of his squad to advance without casualties. However the hostile fire finally became so intense that the advancing friendly elements were forced to withdraw to more tenable positions. As the enemy launched a powerful counterattack, Corporal Nieves-Laguer observed three wounded men lying directly in the path of the onrushing hostile forces. With utter disregard for his personal safety, he made three separate trips across the fire swept terrain to carry the stricken soldiers to safety. After successfully evacuating the injured men, Corporal Nieves-Laguer returned to his position and manned his weapon. From his emplacement he was able to furnish effective fire support to cover the withdrawal and subsequent reorganization of his unit. The outstanding devotion to duty and extraordinary heroism displayed by Corporal Nieves-Laguer in this action reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

Awards Received