Navy Federal Credit Union

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Private First Class George W. Rich, United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy in Korea while serving with the 7th Infantry Division.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2nd Battalion

    Regiment:

    17th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    7th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 12, 1950

    Headquarters, 7th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 77 (March 26, 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 W. Rich, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Hoengsong, Korea, on 12 February 1951. On this date, Private Rich was with a motorized column, which was halted at an enemy roadblock and subjected to intense enemy automatic weapons fire. When a tank commander requested volunteers to expose themselves to draw enemy fire, Private Rich was the sole respondent. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he fearlessly exposed himself to the fire of an enemy machine gun, enabling the tank to locate and destroy it. The daring and heroic action displayed by Private Rich on this occasion contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and reflects great credit on himself and the military service.