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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Henry Deibler, Jr. (NSN: 0-123761), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Engineer Officer and Gunnery Officer of the U.S.S. COLE (DD-155), during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco, from 8 November 1942 to 11 November 1942. On the morning of 8 November, the U.S.S. COLE entered the harbor of Safi, in darkness, in order to land Army assault troops at the dock. While actually the Engineer Officer, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Deibler performed the duties of Gunnery Officer during the operation. Although located in a very exposed position and under fire, he performed his duties in an outstanding manner. His engineering department likewise did excellent work. The skill, courage, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Deibler were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Walker (DD-517)

    Action Date:

    March 17 – May 2, 1945
    Commander 1st Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 0591 (September 17, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] William Henry Deibler, Jr. (NSN: 0-123761), United States Navy, for meritorious service as Executive Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. WALKER (DD-517), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area from 17 March to 2 May 1945. Acting as Combat Information Center Evaluator, Lieutenant Commander Deibler skillfully carried out his assigned duties during numerous hostile air attacks and the bombardment of enemy territory and thereby contributed materially to the success of his ship in the destruction of Japanese aircraft and shore installations. By his skill, initiative and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Deibler upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Commander Deibler is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)