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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery), [then Second Lieutenant] William J. Bartlett (ASN: 0-1170641), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery A, 5th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, in July and August 1943. When a determined enemy counterattack caused our forces to withdraw, Lieutenant Bartlett, a forward artillery observer, organized a small group of men and proceeded through heavy machine gun and mortar fire to the aid of the wounded. His unselfish and heroic actions gained him the admiration of his men. Lieutenant Bartlett’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Field Artillery), [then Second Lieutenant]

    Batallion:

    5th Field Artillery Battalion

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II
    Headquarters, 1st Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (February 9, 1944)

    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 First Lieutenant (Field Artillery), [then Second Lieutenant] William J. Bartlett (ASN: 0-1170641), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery A, 5th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on or about 10 July 1943. During landing operations, Lieutenant Bartlett skillfully established and maintained communications with supporting warships despite determined enemy resistance. His accurate adjustment of naval gunfire materially aided our forces in repelling an enemy counterattack. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.