Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    1st Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    May 22 & 23, 1945

    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 58486

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Bert H. Peterson (MCSN: 887135), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a rifleman of Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 22 and 23 May 1945. Although painfully wounded during a strong hostile counter attack on his company’s position on the evening of 22 May, Private Peterson voluntarily chose to remain with his unit, continuing to engage the enemy with hand grenades and sub-machine gun fire. Wounded a second time on the morning of 25 May, he again steadfastly refused evacuation until he was formally ordered to leave the company defensive position. His aggressive fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on Private Peterson and the United States Naval Service.