Richard D. Bellis’ Silver Star citation

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

CORPORAL RICHARD D. BELLIS, USMCR.,

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the First Marine Division during an engagement with enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, December 28, 1943. When his unit was held up by intense hostile machine-gun fire, Corporal Bellis skillfully maneuvered his squad into an advantageous position and destroyed the enemy emplacement, enabling our troops to advance. Fighting courageously and with gallant disregard for his own personal safety, he continued his assault against the Japanese until he was seriously wounded. Corporal Bellis, valiant leadership and fearless devotion to duty 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: Chicago, Ill…. Home of record: Brookfield, Ill…. Killed in action on 22 September 1944 in Caroline Islands… Interred: Manilla American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines