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 pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Howard Paul Merkle (ASN: US-52003637), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Corporal Merkle distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Yusil-li, Korea, on 14 March 1951. On that date, Corporal Merkle’s company was advancing up a steep slope in an attack against a well-concealed and firmly entrenched enemy force. Suddenly, intense and accurate fire from an enemy machine-gun began to pour down on the company, halting the assault. Realizing that his comrades were faced with possible annihilation, Corporal Merkle leapt from his covered position and single-handedly rushed the hostile emplacement. With grenades and rifle fire, he successfully silenced the weapon and killed its crew before falling, mortally wounded. Greatly inspired by Corporal Merkle’s courage in the face of point-blank enemy fire, his comrades renewed their assault and successfully routed the hostile force. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Corporal Merkle on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.

Awards Received