Colonel Bernard G. Teeters received the Distinguished Service Cross for his extraordinary heroism while a lieutenant colonel commanding 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry in Korea on 19-20 September 1950. On that date Colonel Teetersí battalion launched an attack on Chungam-ni, the initial battalion objective in the Pusan perimeter break-through. A ridge, occupied by a numerically superior, fanatical and determined enemy, commanded the approached. At 0800 hours 19 September, immediately upon crossing the line of departure, the attacking elements as well as the battalion command post and the reserve company were subjected to intense and uncannily accurate machine-gun, artillery and mortar fire. When it became apparent that the attack was faltering and many casualties were eminent, Colonel Teeters purposely rose form his position of safety, exposing himself to the enemy with the view of instilling courage and aggressiveness in the wavering attack elements. The attacking force, inspired by his action, rallied and pressed forward. Colonel Teeters then calmly moved forward with the lead attacking elements, in full view of the enemy, directing and coordinating the attack. As a result of Colonel Teetersí skillful, heroic and inspirational leadership, the strategic ridge was secured and many of the enemy killed. On the morning of 20 September, Colonel Teeters prepared and coordinated an attack plan for the final assault upon Chungam-ni. As the lead elements prepared to launch their attack, the enemy again concentrated a furious and withering blanket of artillery fire upon the position. Colonel Teeters, again moved with utter disregard for the hostile fire, reconnoitered a relatively safe route which enabled the companies to advance with a minimum of casualties, the skillful leadership, calmness and confidence displayed by Colonel Teeters contributed immeasurably to the successful accomplishment of the battalion mission. His heroism reflects great credit on himself and the military service.

Colonel Teeters joined the Legion of Valor in 1976.