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 Silver Star to Master Sergeant Berry Burke (ASN: Rap-35793296), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Sesim-ni, Korea, during the night of 3 – 4 February 1951. His battalion was defending in preparation to continue the attack to the Han River. At about 23000 hours, the enemy launched the first of a series of attacks in tremendous mass, covered and supported by the most intense small arms, machine gun, and mortar fire. At about 0130 hours the enemy made a concerted effort on the right flank of Company A where Master Sergeant Burke’s 75-mm. recoilless rifle section was located. At the attack pushed closer and closer Master Sergeant Burke, who had taken over the firing of one of the weapons poured round after round into the oncoming ranks. As the enemy approached to within hand grenade range he exposed himself completely to the withering hail of fire in order to better observe the enemy and to be able to manipulate his weapon quickly to fire on the best targets. The enemy pushed his advance to within 20 feet of the position, but there he was met by Master Sergeant Burke’s accurate fire. What few survivors there were broke and ran under his vicious bombardment. Of an estimated 70 troops the enemy lost 50 as a result of Maser Sergeant Burke’s tenacious action. Master Sergeant Burke’s courageous actions, devotion to duty, and exemplary combat leadership are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Infantry.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    Korean War

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 321 (1951)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Barry Burke, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 24th Infantry Division in Korea. 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.