The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Bernard Siegel (MCSN: 473744), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Division Combat Photographer in the SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 15 June 1944. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Private First Class Siegel landed with the second assault wave and, despite the fact that others were taking cover at the time, made close-range photographs of actual fighting during the initial phase on the beaches in the Saipan operation. While photographing other Marines undergoing a Japanese mortar barrage, Private First Class Siegel sustained mortal wounds. His self-sacrificing devotion to duty and heroic fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.