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 Corporal William P. Kulbieda (MCSN: 447818), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 28 June 1944. When one of his men was wounded in front of our lines, Corporal Kulbieda bravely crawled through the intense hostile gunfire in an attempt to reach his wounded comrade. Although wounded himself during this action, he courageously continued working his way forward until assured that the Marine was dead. His courage, devotion to duty and grave concern for the welfare of another were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Silver Star
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
Private First ClassBatallion:
3d BattalionRegiment:
8th MarinesDivision:
2d Marine DivisionAction Date:
November 22, 1943
Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 01489The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William P. Kulbieda (MCSN: 447818), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, 22 November 1943. With his company pinned down and suffering heavy casualties from heavy enemy fire emanating from a large bomb-proof shelter, Private First Class Kulbieda moved forward with four companions under intense enemy shellfire to a favorable position for providing cover for the advancing demolition squad. After the shelter had been partially demolished and approximately one hundred Japanese troops annihilated, he again advanced with his comrades as two hundred of the enemy emerged from the entrance firing rifles and light machine guns in an effort to withdraw and establish a new defense. Engaging the outnumbering force in close combat, he contributed to the success of his unit in accounting for many more hostile troops, thereby enabling the battalion to advance and occupy the northeast section of the island. His courage and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Kulbieda and the United States Naval Service.