James S. Garberg, First Lieutenant (then Second Lieutenant). Company K, 32nd Infantry, Army of the United States. For extraordinary heroiosm in action at Attu Island, Alaska, May 23, 1943. In an attack on May 23, Lieutenant Garberg commanded the leading platoon of his company. A dense fog closed in which halted the attack due to the inability to observe supporting weapons fire. His platoon was ordered to withdraw, but Lieutenant Garberg requested and obtained permission to withdraw his platoon, but remain himself to direct mortar fire on enemy machine gun emplacements which he could see, but the mortar observers could not. He remained in this fire swept position, in advance of his own troops, and directed mortar fire until he was ordered to return to his platoon. On the previous night, Lieutenant Garberg successfully led his platoon in a bayonet and grenade attack on an enemy position in the high, snow covered precipitous mountains overlooking East Arm, Holtz Bay. Three enemy machine guns were knocked out and heavy casualties were inflicted upon the enemy in this attack. When other units in the attack failed to gain their objectives, because of intense enemy resistance, Lieutenant Garberg was ordered to withdraw. He succeeded in extricating his troops from this hazardous, fire swept salient (sic), displaying courage and leadership of the highest order. When his platoon had reached reasonable safety and cover, he personally returned under fire to each of the three men who had been hit, to see if he could help them. Finding them dead he rejoined his platoon. Lieutenant GarbergÃs gallant, determined heroism, and aggressiveness were inspiring to all members of this company.
Mr. Garberg a life member residing in Minnesota.