Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    December 23, 1951

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 890 (December 30, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Luiz P. Caladino (ASN: RA-16337667), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 December 1951 in the vicinity of Kumgong-ni, Korea. On that date Corporal Caladino was leading an infantry platoon, which was part of a tank-infantry combat patrol, against a well concealed and heavily entrenched hostile force. Upon nearing the objective, Corporal Caladino became aware that another unit of the same patrol was halted by intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he unhesitatingly exposed himself to the enemy fire in order to lead his men in a fierce attack on the hostile positions, thereby relieving the heavy pressure from the other friendly unit. His heroic action diverted a large volume of fire from the adjoining unit and aided immeasurably in the successful accomplishment of the patrol’s mission. The gallantry in action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Caladino on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.