Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Cavalry) Eben R. Wyles (ASN: 0-3113589), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 2d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized), XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy on 2 April 1945 in Germany. At daylight the 2d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron Rear Echelon was attacked by the 6th SS Mountain Division, numbering about 3,000 troops – the head of the column then attacked the 2d Squadron Headquarters. Major Myles, taking command of a small group of light tanks and armored cars, moved swiftly to repel the attack and having destroyed by fire of his weapons the leading elements of the column, he moved with a small force to the flank of the enemy where by the vigor of his attack he prevented further enemy deployment. Despite heavy enemy attacks and continuous fire throughout the morning, Major Wyles maintained his position with his small force until midday when the arrival of an Infantry Battalion accomplished the relief of Waldensburg. Major Myles’ courage, his expert leadership of his small force of armored vehicles against a far heavier enemy force was in accordance with the highest standards of the military service.

Awards Received