Gold Star: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a member of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 16 April 1952. When an outpost occupied by his unit was subjected to a fierce assault by vastly outnumbering enemy forces and the outpost commander and a section of the area were cut off during the intensive action, Technical Sergeant Wawrzyniak unhesitatingly assumed command of the remaining troops and promptly organized an effective defense against the fanatical attackers. With the position completely encircled and subjected to extremely heavy enemy machine-gun, recoiless rifle, mortar and small-arms fire, he repeatedly braved the hail of blistering fire to reach the groups cut off by the enemy, boldly led the men back into the defensive perimeter, replenished their supply of ammunition and encouraged them in repelling the close-in enemy attacks. Although painfully wounded, he refused immediate treatment for himself, dressed the wounds of

other casualties and assisted the stricken men to the safety of the bunkers before accepting medical aid. By his outstanding courage, inspiring leadership and valiant devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds, Technical Sergeant Wawrzyniak was greatly instrumental in the successful defense of the outpost and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

View Sergeant Wawrzyniak’s Navy Cross citation.