Navy Federal Credit Union

Lieutenant Sweeney served in Germany with the Army during World War II, was three years into a degree program at MacAlester College when he was recalled to active duty in Korea in October 1950. After returning from Korea in December 1952, he served in France, Taiwan, Vietnam, Italy and Korea. He retired as a colonel in 1974 after 30 years of service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    35th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    25th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 7 & 8, 1951

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 28 (March 13, 1952)

    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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Harvey Orvin Sweeney (ASN: 0-1334376), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Sweeney distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Tangwon-ni, Korea, on 7 and 8 September 1951. When his platoon came under intense enemy artillery and mortar attack, Lieutenant Sweeney left his place of safety and moved to an exposed vantage point to better direct the defense. Despite a painful wound, he moved fearlessly among his troops, and by his calm demeanor and unflinching courage, encouraged them to stand firm. Wounded a second time, he refused medical attention and constantly braved withering fire to assist the wounded and coordinate the holding action. Moving to a friendly machine-gun which had been silenced, he found the gun inoperative and returned through the fire-swept area to obtain a replacement. Wounded a third time in both legs and no longer able to move, he refused evacuation and ordered that he be carried to a position from which he could direct the defense, thus inspiring his men to contain successive enemy attacks throughout the night. Despite numerous casualties and a dwindling supply of ammunition, he continued to direct the defense, and by his skill and courageous example enabled his men to ward of the assailants until assistance arrived. Lieutenant Sweeney’s inspirational leadership, indomitable courage, and consummate devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on himself, the Infantry, and the United States Army.