Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant First Class

    Regiment:

    5043d Service Unit, Transfer Station

    Action Date:

    March 17, 1956

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 37 (August 17, 1956)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Sergeant First Class Karl O. Sabady, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the 5043d Service Unit, Transfer Station, at Fort Sheridan, Illinois, on 17 March 1956. Upon learning that two children were trapped in a burning trailer Sergeant Sabady immediately went to their aid. When entry through the front door was impossible due to smoke and flame Sergeant Sabady entered through the back door. Dense smoke resulting from burning lacquer and varnish forced him to withdraw but again, disregarding his own safety Sergeant Sabady, again entered and again was forced out. Wrapping his face with wet clothing Sergeant Sabady tried a third time but could not penetrate the suffocating smoke. By tearing out a window Sergeant Sabady was able to see the children and was able to pull them to safety through the window. Sergeant Sabady’s courageous action reflects great credit on himself and is in keeping with the traditions of the military service.