Silver Star, “No.31475” (Tec5 Vadon J. McIlwain, 18th Inf)

Silver Star, split brooch, unnamed, numbered “31475″. With copied research tracing this medal by number to Tec5 Vadon J. McIlwain, 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. The ribbon shows wear and age. With copied research.

1st Infantry Division General Orders No.28 (28 June 1943) awarded this Silver Star to McIlwain for “gallantry in action. When his battalion’s wire communications had been destroyed by shell fire, Corporal McIlwain exposed himself to heavy enemy fire and repaired these lines. His coolness and bravery under fire inspired the men of his battalion. Medal No. 31475″. McIlwain also received two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts. His initial Bronze Star was for “heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy in Normandy, France, 6 June 1944.” McIlwain was from Millry, Alabama.