Virgil J. Sartin’s Silver Star citation

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the SILVER STAR MEDAL to

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS VIRGIL J. SARTIN, USMC.,

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, December 26, 1943.Braving intense enemy machine-gun and rifle fire while proceeding with forward elements of an assault company to positions within range of hostile weapons, Private First Class Sartin manned his gun on a one ton truck with deadly accuracy and, although wounded during this action, succeeded in killing three Japanese at their station in a pillbox. By his steadfast devotion to duty, he completely neutralized an enemy emplacement which was retarding the advance of our forces. Private First Class Sartin’s aggressive fighting spirit and selfless conduct in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”

For the President,
/s/ James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy

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Born: Portsmouth, Ohio… Home of record: Portsmouth, Ohio