The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross Medal to
Private First Class Edmond T. Orsulak
United States Marine Corps
Citation:
For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Runner in Company G, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Yudam-ni, Korea, from 30 November to 1 December 1950. Immediately assuming command when the platoon officers and two squad leaders were killed or severely wounded during a vigorous hostile automatic weapons and grenade attack on his company, Private First Class Orsulak skillfully reorganized the right flank of the platoon and, placing his men in tactical defense positions, led them in repulsing the assault. Carrying out the duties of a platoon sergeant throughout the remainder of the day and night, he supplied the platoon with necessary rations and vitally needed ammunition and, in addition, redeployed the men to furnish more effective support, leading them in delivering accurate, direct fire on the enemy. When the platoon came under intense hostile attack again on the morning of 1 December, he repeatedly braved heavy hostile fire to observe and adjust 60-mm. mortar fire on enemy targets thereby contributing materially to the successful repelling of the attack. His quick initiative, courageous leadership and gallant devotion to duty during a serious crisis reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Orsulak and the United States Naval Service.
