The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] Rolf H. Bjerke (ASN: 36004323), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from January to June 1943. Discovering an enemy machine gun emplacement, Sergeant Bjerke crawled through terrain under heavy artillery bombardment to a position overlooking the enemy. His accurate rifle fire destroyed the gun and compelled the surrender of a number of the enemy. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.