Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    505th Parachute Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    82d Airborne Division

    Action Date:

    January 4, 1945

    Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, General Orders No. 17 (February 15, 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 Sergeant Marshall M. Massey (ASN: 14068625), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 4 January 1945, near ****, Belgium. Sergeant Massey, Squad Leader, hearing Germans digging in near his positions, moved forward through heavy timber for personal reconnaissance. Disregarding his own safety, he crept closer and opened fire with his M-1. His attack caught the enemy by complete surprise. He killed and wounded fifteen Germans, three of whom were officers. Completely confused by his attack an entire battalion of Germans never completely regained unity. Sergeant Massey’s initiative and courage were an inspiration to his men and his solitary actions were over and above the call of duty.