Real American Heroes

Pascal C. Poolaw Sr.’s SECOND Silver Star citation

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Pascal Cleatus Poolaw (ASN: 18131087), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. On 19 September 1950 when the company attack on an enemy position was halted by stiff enemy resistance, Sergeant First Class Poolaw volunteered to lead his squad in an assault. Courageously leading his men in a charge up the slope to penetrate the enemy perimeter and engage the numerically superior enemy in fierce hand-to-hand combat, Sergeant First Class Poolaw inspired his men to hold their position until the remainder of the company was able to seize the objective. Sergeant First Class Poolaw’s outstanding leadership reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the American Soldier.


Born: Jan. 22, 1922 in Apache, Okla… Member of the Kiowa nation… Landed at Normandy Beach during World War II, also fought in the Vietnam War during his 22-year career… In addition to his four Silver Stars he also earned five Bronze Stars, and three Purple Hearts making Poolaw perhaps the most-decorated Native American in military history… His four sons were soldiers during the Vietnam War… Killed in action on Nov. 7, 1967… Interred: Fort Sill Post Cemetery in Fort Sill, Okla.

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