Felix Figueroa

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Felix Figueroa (RA10400643), Corporal, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 23 March 1951, near Uijongbu, Korea, Company I was advancing on enemy positions located in the general area of Hill 221. Many of these emplacements were strongly entrenched and carefully camouflaged enabling the enemy to place severe fire on the assault troops. As he was moving with the company up the hill, Corporal Figueroa spotted an enemy position which was a primary obstacle in the way of the company’s mission. Without hesitation he rushed forward across the hazardous terrain with his automatic rifleman to within five yards of the emplacement. There covered by the fire of the automatic rifle, he threw grenades at his foe until his comrade was wounded by returning fire from the enemy. After assisting the injured soldier to a place of safety, Corporal Figueroa returned to the scene of action and by effective use of hand grenades succeeded in neutralizing the enemy position. His actions witnessed by the whole company, inspired them to make a final assault and capture their objective. The gallantry and outstanding leadership displayed by Corporal Figueroa reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service.