MAJOR CHESTER W. VAN ORMAN, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross while a sergeant first class serving with C Company, 19th Infantry Regiment. He displayed extraordinary heroism on 16 July 1950, near Taepyon-Ni, Korea. The position of the Second Platoon, Company C, 19th Infantry Regiment was being overrun by an enemy of superior force. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant First Class Van Orman exposed himself to enemy fire by standing and firing tracer ammunition to direct mortar fire on the enemy. He organized the remaining two platoons of Company C, setting up a perimeter defense and then went to deliver a message to Company A. Finding Company A had withdrawn, Sergeant First Class Van Orman returned to his unit, remaining in the position until every man had withdrawn. He then led the men through mountainous terrain to join friendly forces. His courage and aggressive leadership reflects the highest credit on himself and the military service.

MAJ Van Orman joined the Legion of Valor in 1971 and resides in Northern California.