The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Olin E. Teague (ASN: 0-294931), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division. On 24 June 1944, Lieutenant Colonel Teague made a personal reconnaissance of his battalion’s objective, which took him deep into the enemy’s lines. The next morning, under heavy enemy artillery, mortar, and automatic weapons fire, he personally led his battalion against the objective. When some of the men faltered, Lieutenant Colonel Teague coolly and courageously exposed himself to enemy fire and urged them to follow him forward. He was wounded slightly in the action, but the battalion Objective was accomplished. On 3 July 1944 the battalion was advancing through heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire when Lieutenant Colonel Teague was wounded in the back. Because the operation was at a crucial phase, he disdained medical attention until the objective had been taken. Success of the action was due in part to his display of heroic leadership and coolness under fire. His conduct in both of these actions reflect the highest credit on himself and the military forces of the United States.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Olin E. Teague (ASN: 0-294931), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy as Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, on 8 July 1944 in France. After requesting tanks for use in an assault on a stubbornly defended and strongly emplaced series of enemy strongpoints, Lieutenant Colonel Teague proceeded to the foremost elements of his command to reconnoiter the most effective route of attack for the tanks. He accomplished this at great personal risk, being constantly exposed to enemy small arms, machine gun and artillery fire. He remained with the most advanced elements throughout the action and his presence so inspired the men that in spite of numerous casualties and exceptionally intense enemy fire, the objective was achieved and a highly strategic position gained and held. For his gallantry and indomitable spirit of leadership at a critical time, Lieutenant Colonel Teague reflect highest credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.