Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant [then Sergeant] Harry L. Fowler (ASN: 6947310), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Armored Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on ** December 1942, in North Africa. While attached to the *** Armored Regiment in the vicinity of **** and ****, Technical Sergeant Fowler, section leader in charge of a half track mounting a 75-mm. Howitzer, participated in an attack on an enemy-held hill across a two-mile valley. The armored vehicles, all light tanks except his one-half track, came under heavy artillery fire, however, Technical Sergeant Fowler’s track continued the attack until his by three shells, destroying the Howitzer and setting the vehicle on fire. The crew abandoned the vehicle, coming under immediate machine gun fire. Technical Sergeant Fowler cooly reorganized his men and led them to safety with the loss of only one man. Again on ** February 1943, when the company was attached to the *** Combat Team, at ******, Tunisia, the half tracks covered the withdrawal when the enemy attacked in strong force. Despite the fact of the enemy’s superior number of tanks, Technical Sergeant Fowler and his crew remained in position and fired point blank until the truck was again hit and destroyed. When the enemy had broken through at several points and capture was imminent, orders were given for small groups to work their way through the lines to safety. Technical Sergeant Fowler led a group of nine men and after two days maneuvering in enemy territory, reached friendly forces. Technical Sergeant Fowler’s personal courage, tactful initiative, and outstanding leadership against overwhelming odds were an inspiration to the men under him and were a credit to the Military Service of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Division:

    9th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 9th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1944)

    (UNCONFIRMED – Citation Needed): Harry L. Fowler, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 9th Infantry Division during World War II.