Pharmacist Mate 2nd Class Charles W. Lejeck

United States Navy​

SILVER STAR MEDAL

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with 3d Battalion 3d Marines 3d Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Piva Forks at Bougainville Island, British Solomon Islands, on November 24, 1943. Fearlessly advancing beyond the battalion's lines in order to assist men wounded in battle, Walthall ministered to eight members of a combat patrol. Although severely wounded while aiding the injured men, he continued his gallant service until all had been attended. Despite the seriousness of his condition, Walthall then crawled through a swamp for a distance of five hundred yards to an aid station where, refusing help for himself, he procured the assistance of an evacuation party which he guided to the wounded marines. His outstanding devotion to duty and his exceptional fortitude in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

For the President,

FRANK KNOX

Secretary of the Navy

April 26, 1944