Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    5th Engineer Battalion

    Division:

    5th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    March 23, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Asa T. Bartlett (MCSN: 853227), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the Fifth Engineer Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, during operations against the Japanese on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 23 March 1945. On this date, when engaged in demolition work, Sergeant Bartlett observed that a dangerous breach had developed in the front lines. With bold initiative he deployed his engineer squad across the breach and though lightly armed and subjected to heavy enemy rifle and machine gun fire he held this position for three hours. After having successfully prevented attempted enemy penetration at this position in the line throughout this period he ordered his squad to withdraw when it became evident that the forces on his flanks were being pulled back in order to shorten the lines. While his squad withdrew under heavy enemy fire Sergeant Bartlett, with total disregard for his own personal safety, stayed on the line and delivered a rapid covering fire which held the enemy in their positions and which enabled his squad to reach the new position without casualties. While engaged in covering his squad’s movement he was fatally wounded. His initiative, skill, and unselfish courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.