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 Master Sergeant George Mamula, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Platoon Sergeant with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Master Sergeant Mamula distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea, on 9 September 1951. On that date, Sergeant Mamula’s company was engaged in an attack against a fanatical hostile force occupying heavily fortified hill positions. In the opening phases of the assault, intense enemy mortar and artillery fire accounted for numerous casualties among the friendly troops, including the company commander and all of the platoon leaders. Without leadership, the attacking elements became confused and the assault was temporarily halted. Sergeant Mamula, holding his platoon in reserve, realized that immediate and aggressive action was necessary to sustain the attack. He quickly moved his men forward through the pinned-down friendly troops and urged all of the men forward. Completely exposed to the devastating enemy fire, he remained with the lead elements, shouting encouragement and directing actions of the friendly troops. Inspired by his fearlessness, the entire friendly force moved forward in a coordinated attack. Skillfully maneuvering the three platoons, Sergeant Mamula led them to the objective, routing the disorganized hostile force from the hill. Quickly emplacing his automatic weapons in forward positrons, he directed their fire against the fleeing enemy with deadly accuracy. He then reorganized his men in a defensive perimeter to guard against a counterattack. Throughout this assault, his complete disregard for the intense enemy fire and his inspiring qualities of leadership enabled his company to complete its mission with a minimum of casualties but at great cost to the enemy. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Master Sergeant Mamula on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.

Awards Received