Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    7th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 21, 1951

    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 527 (November 21, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Wendell Eugene Blagg (US-56054907), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 21 May 1951, the Third Squad of the Second Platoon, having recaptured a small knoll near Yang-yang, Korea, was counterattacked by the enemy in platoon strength. Private Blagg, the squad’s automatic rifleman, was ordered to withdraw from his exposed position; however, he remained to deliver an effective covering fire under which his assistant and the assistant squad leader safely withdrew. Then, heedless of the intense enemy fire, he advanced to an even more exposed position and caught the foe in a highly effective crossfire. Although twice wounded while courageously holding the site, Private Blagg continued to fire until his weapon failed to function, at which time, he withdrew for medical treatment. Private Blagg’s gallant initiative and aggressiveness materially contributed to repulsing the enemy and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.