Puerto Rico's 
65th INFANTRY REGIMENT
SILVER STAR
HEADQUARTERS 3D INFANTRY DIVISION
GENERAL ORDERS # 194 - 18 June 1953
Captain WILLIS D. CRONKHITE, JR., 028269, Infantry, Company "F", 65th Infantry
Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. On the morning of 28 October
1952, Company "F", commanded by Captain CRONKHITE, attacked an enemy held position,
"Jackson Heights", in the vicinity of Kangong-Ni, Korea. Captain CRONKHITE'S company
came under intense hostile mortar and artillery fire, causing elements of the squads to become
separated and intermingled. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved through the hale
of fire and reorganized his company. He then continued to direct his company in the attack. As the
company neared the crest of the hill, the mortar fire increased and enemy machine guns swept the
approaches to the objective. Braving the enemy's concentrated fire, Captain CRONKHITE personally
led his men forward in the assault. In the ensuing action, Company "F" completely overran the enemy's
positions and seized the objective. Although still harassed by small arms fire, he continued to move among
his men, directing their effective reorganization on the position and overseeing the immediate resupply
ammunition. Captain CRONKHITE'S outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflect great credit
upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal service from New Jersey.
Source: Record Group 338: General Orders 3rd Infantry Division, Boxes 129 to 131 -National Archives and Records Administration, College Park, Maryland.