William E. Brugger

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William E. Brugger (305775), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 15 June 1944. Mortally wounded when his unit was pinned down by shattering machine-gun fire emanating from a concealed enemy pillbox during fierce hostilities on D-Day, Corporal Brugger, on his own initiative, fearlessly pressed forward through the withering barrage and single-handedly charged the emplacement. Determined to complete his perilous mission and prevent further casualties, he fought furiously despite the tremendous odds and succeeded in destroying the enemy before he was evacuated. Corporal Brugger’s daring initiative, his valiant fighting spirit and great personal valor, maintained throughout the bitter engagement, served as an inspiration to his comrades and his self-sacrificing devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 13017 (May 10, 1945)