Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    3d Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    November 20, 1943

    Commander South Pacific: Serial 00772 (December 28, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Steve J. Cibik (MCSN: 0-12689), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Leader of a Reinforced Rifle Platoon attached to the Second Battalion, THIRD Marine Division during the assault and capture of a Japanese held ridge at Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands on November 20, 1943. Surrounded by an overwhelming number of hostile forces while defending a vitally important ridge six hundred yards in advance of his front lines and commanding the entire area in which our troops were operating, First Lieutenant Cibik determined to retain his position and gallantly leading his men throughout thirty-five hours of fierce combat during which the enemy made repeated attempts to drive his platoon from the entrenchment, held the ridge until his command was relieved. Under his inspiring and forceful leadership his mend destroyed at least thirty of the enemy during this prolonged battle and retained the commanding ground which proved of the utmost importance in driving the Japanese from the area. By his daring initiative and valiant fighting spirit, First Lieutenant Cibik contributed materially to the success of the engagement, and his unwavering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.