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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private William A. Justesen (MCSN: 108059), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fifty-Fifth Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F., in action near Vierzy, France, 19 July 1918. Private Justesen displayed exceptional bravery in charging three machineguns with the aid of a small detachment of his comrades, killing the crews and capturing the guns, which were immediately turned on the Germans, thereby opening the line for the advance of his company, which had been held up by the enemy’s fire.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    July 18 – 22, 1918
    Citation Orders, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D. 1918), Private William A. Justesen (MCSN: 108059), United States Marine Corps, is cited by the Commanding General, SECOND DIVISION, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Private Justesen distinguished himself while serving with the 55th Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces at Soissons, France, 18 to 22 July 1918.

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    July 19, 1918

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private William A. Justesen (MCSN: 108059), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 55th Company, 5th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action near Vierzy, France, 19 July 1918. Private Justesen displayed exceptional bravery in charging three machineguns with the aid of a small detachment of his comrades, killing the crews and capturing the guns, which were immediately turned on the Germans, thereby opening the line for the advance of his company, which had been held up by the enemy’s fire.