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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major Joseph S. Buntin (MCSN: 0-14700), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 29 and 30 March 1953. Assigned the task of organizing the elements of two battalions into an effective force to defend a combat outpost which had been recaptured from the enemy, Major Buntin unhesitatingly proceeded to the outpost through intense hostile fire and successfully directed the defense of the position against two separate enemy counterattacks of battalion strength. Throughout a period of over thirty-six hours, he repeatedly braved hostile small arms, mortar and artillery fire to inspect and direct his defenses and to insure that the positions were defended at all times. By his indomitable courage, daring initiative and unswerving devotion to the fulfillment of a vital task, Major Buntin served to inspire all who observed him and was instrumental in the success achieved by the battalion, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    4th Marine Raider Battalion

    Action Date:

    July 20, 1943
    Headquarters, United States Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 519 (December 21, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to First Lieutenant Joseph S. Buntin (MCSN: 0-14700), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for gallantry in action while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider Battalion at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. First Lieutenant Buntin deliberately exposed himself to enemy fire in order to locate and attack hostile installations, and aggressively leading a company forward after his Company Commander was wounded, repulsed a Japanese counter attack. The gallant conduct of First Lieutenant Buntin throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.