Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Platoon Sergeant Michael J. Dunbar (MCSN: 0-41497), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, 21 July 1944. With a superior number of counterattacking enemy troops attempting to envelop both flanks, Platoon Sergeant Dunbar kept his men well organized and despite heavy casualties, repulsed three counterattacks, the last of which ended in hand-to-hand combat. Although seriously wounded, he was the last to leave the position when his platoon was reinforced by fresh troops. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    September 15, 1950

    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 First Lieutenant Michael J. Dunbar (MCSN: 0-41497), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of Company D, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 15 September 1950. When a fire fight started while he was assisting in the deployment of one of the rifle platoons, First Lieutenant Dunbar immediately organized the right flank of the platoon and boldly moved along the line while directing and controlling friendly fire. Although receiving a serious eye wound as the fire fight progressed and became more intense, he persisted in supervising the platoon’s effective fire until the action subsided. En route to the Battalion Aid Station when the fire fight again increased in intensity, he returned to the platoon and continued to direct and control its fire until the enemy assault was successfully repulsed. His unflinching fortitude, outstanding leadership and selfless devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Dunbar and the United States Naval Service.