Sponsored by:

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 Sergeant First Class [then Sergeant] Curtis L. Zerbe (ASN: US-55006892), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 8 October 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On this date Company L was engaged in a fierce fire fight with hostile elements determined to hold their positions. In the course of this action, Sergeant Zerbe, armed with an automatic rifle and with complete disregard for his own safety, assaulted an enemy position that commanded the surrounding terrain. After securing this position, he ably directed mortar fire on the hostile emplacements, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. So effective was this mortar fire that the hostile force withdrew, confused and disorganized. His dauntless courage and devotion to duty were highly responsible for the success of his unit on this mission. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Zerbe reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal [then Private First Class]

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 25, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 289 (July 12, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Corporal [then Private First Class] Curtis L. Zerbe (ASN: US-55006892), United States Army, for heroic achievement on 25 May 1951 in the vicinity of Chaun-ni, Korea. Company L had the mission of securing high ground across the Soyang River in order to provide protective fire for an engineer unit which was bridging the river. As the unit proceeded toward its objective, it was ambushed by a strong enemy roadblock and was subjected to intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons, rocket launcher and grenade fire. During the initial onslaught, the lead vehicle was crippled and several members of the convoy were wounded. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Corporal Zerbe immediately dashed through intense enemy fire to treat the wounded. Remaining in an exposed position, he administered first aid and assisted in evacuating the wounded to safety. His courageous actions undoubtedly saved the lives of several of his comrades. The heroic conduct of Corporal Zerbe reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.