The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class Donald F. Berger (NSN: 2852323), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a gunner on a United States Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED EIGHTEEN (VPB-118), between Korea and Japan on 11 May 1945. When the airplane was hit by anti-aircraft fire from a ship under attack, he courageously extinguished fires, disregarding his own wounds. His prompt and efficient action was instrumental in assuring the safe return of the seaplane. His heroic conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Donald
F.
Berger
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Silver Star
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Aviation Ordnanceman Third ClassBatallion:
Patrol Bombing Squadron 118 (VPB-118)Action Date:
May 11, 1945
Commander 5th Fleet: Serial 813 (July 23, 1945) -
Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Aviation Ordnanceman Third ClassBatallion:
Patrol Bombing Squadron 118 (VPB-118)Action Date:
May 11 & July 1, 1945
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class Donald F. Berger (NSN: 2852323), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Korea on 11 May 1945 and the coast of China on 1 July 1945. Carrying out his duties with skill and courage, he contributed materially to the acquisition of valuable information regarding hostile forces. He took part in an attack which sank two enemy vessels and damaged a third. By his vigilance and courage he was important in an attack which sank a large river steamer. His skill and valor and unswerving loyalty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.