Navy Federal Credit Union

Martin Anderberg was originally nominated for the Medal of Honor, and his award was changed to the award of the Navy Cross by the Awards Board.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    28th Marines

    Division:

    5th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    February 21, 1945

    Commander in Chief Pacific Forces: Serial 35221 (March 4, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Martin L. Anderberg (MCSN: 826617), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as member of a Rifle Platoon serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 21 February 1945. When sudden enfilading fire from a by-passed enemy pillbox to the rear inflicted three casualties in his squad after it had penetrated 300 yards into strongly fortified hostile territory, Private First Class Anderberg voluntarily risked his life in a valiant attempt to wipe out the emplacement. With the devastating fire preventing contact with his platoon and the treatment and evacuation of wounded, he boldly crawled to the entrance of the pillbox under the withering shellfire and, with bayonet fixed and weapon firing, killing six Japanese in the fierce encounter. Mortally wounded during the action, Private First Class Anderberg by his daring initiative, outstanding fortitude and grave concern for the safety of his comrades in the face of almost certain death, had enabled his squad to evacuate the casualties and rejoin its platoon. His loyal spirit of self-sacrifice and great personal valor throughout reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Anderberg and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.