Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Regiment:

    148th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    37th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 25, 1945

    Headquarters, 37th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 268 (August 20, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Willard C. Perkins (ASN: 34155637), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. During the intense fighting at Hill 3 near Baguio on 25 April 1945, Sergeant Perkins courageously braved intense hostile fire to go to the aid of a wounded soldier. He crawled to the casualty’s side, only twenty-five yards from an enemy pillbox, quickly applied a bandage to the wound, and then dragged and carried the injured man down the slope. Although the Japanese directed heavy rifle fire at Sergeant Perkins when he exposed himself in order to pick up and carry the casualty, he successfully reached a safe position. His heroic act saved the life of a wounded comrade. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.