Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    9th Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    November 25, 1943

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Donald Lee Bertsche (MCSN: 445201), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Piva Forks, Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands, on 25 November 1943. With outstanding accuracy and destructive effect, Private First Class Bertsche threw hand grenades and delivered rifle fire at hostile emplacements until he had contributed materially to the advance of his platoon. Arriving near enemy lines at a point under heavy fire from mortars, grenades and machine guns, he observed a Japanese soldier taking aim at a Marine. Rising from his position, he exposed himself just long enough to destroy the enemy, but in so doing was struck in the chest and killed by a hostile bullet. His alert initiative and heroic spirit of self-sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.