The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Commander Bernard William Freund (NSN: 0-71558), United States Navy, for heroic service as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BULLARD (DD-660), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Western Pacific Waters, on the night of 19 – 20 March 1945. Going to the aid of the badly damaged U.S.S. FRANKLLIN, Commander Freund skillfully maneuvered his ship alongside the stricken carrier to assist in extinguishing fires on the hangar deck. Despite the carrier’s heavy list, the dangers of further internal explosions and of additional enemy air attacks, he held his ship close alongside for more than three hours until the fires were extinguished. By his outstanding courage and skill in handling his ship, he contributed materially to the successful retirement of the FRANKLIN to a rear base. His leadership throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Freund is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Commander Bernard William Freund (NSN: 0-71558), United States Navy, for meritorious service as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BULLARD (DD-660), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area, on 11, 16 and 17 April 1945. Courageous in the face of hostile air attacks, Commander Freund skillfully directed his ship’s gunfire throughout these actions and keeping damage to his craft to a minimum, contributed to the success of the BULLARD in destroying two enemy planes and in assisting in the destruction of an additional four. By his professional skill, leadership and devotion to duty, Commander Freund upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Freund is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)