Plt. Sgt. Murl Bright, A/1/8
Serial # - 272233
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the SILVER STAR to:
PLATOON SERGEANT MURL BRIGHT, UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS,
for service as set forth in the following Citation:
For conspicous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Eighth Marines, Second Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 22 November 1943. With his platton leader a casualty during a fierce engagement with the Japanese, Platoon Sergeant Bright promptly assumed command and, fearlessly countering the enemy's incessant shellfire, personally located many hostile strong points throughout the bitter action and subsequentlyled his men in brilliantly executed attacks. Wounded in the arm during an assault against a hostile pillbox later that same day, Platoon Sergeant Bright, by his daring initiative, his outstanding fortitude and inspiring leadership maintained under perilous conditions, had contributed materially to the success of his unit in its sustained drive against a fanatic enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
For the President,
John L. Sullivan
Secretary of the Navy.
"I was very fortunate to be a member of an excellent Company of Marines for this Landing and Battle."
Curteousy of the 2nd Marine Division Association.
copyright 2001 T.O.T.W.
Created 29 July 2001 - Updated 9 June 2004