The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the

BRONZE STAR MEDAL

posthumously to

CORPORAL WILLIAM THOMAS CUMBIE

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

For service set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For meritorious service in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Scout Dog handler with the Third Military Police Battalion, Force Logistic Command from 19 May 1968 to 9 February 1969. Throughout this period, Corporal Cumbie performed his demanding  duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Working tirelessly and with meticulous attention to detail, he expeditiously accomplished all assigned tasks and consistently provided his command with outstanding support. Participating in ten major combat operations, including Operations Lancaster, Mameluke Thrust, and Taylor Common, he repeatedly distinguished himself by his courage and composure under fire. Skillfully perceiving alerts rendered by his scout dog, he was instrumental in the discovery of several well-concealed enemy bunker complexes, food caches, ambush sites, and, on one occasion, a large sophisticated radio relay station. On 9 February 1969, while aggressively pursuing a hostile force with the point element of the Third Battalion, Third Marines, during a search and destroy operation, Corporal Cumbie was mortally wounded by enemy sniper fire. His untiring initiative and resolute determination inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of the unit’s mission. Corporal Cumbie’s leadership, professional competence and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service”

The Combat “V” is authorized.

FOR THE PRESIDENT

H.W.BUSE, JR.

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U.S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC