William C. Holmberg

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William C. Holmberg (0-51944), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Rifle Platoon Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 13 June 1952. Assigned the mission of attacking a strong enemy position far forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Holmberg courageously and skillfully led his platoon deep into the heavily defended and well-patrolled hostile territory and, upon making direct contact with enemy troops, engaged them in a fierce hand-to-hand battle while under an intense concentration of hostile mortar, machine-gun and small-arms fire. Although severely wounded during the engagement, he refused to be evacuated and, while receiving first aid, continued to issue orders and to direct the offensive operations of his unit. By his outstanding valor, inspiring leadership and selfless devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Holmberg was greatly responsible for the success achieved by his platoon in capturing a prisoner of war and annihilating one hundred and two of the enemy, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.