GENERAL ORDERS - NUMBER 322  7 Aug 1953

 

    AWARD OF THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL - (FIRST BRONZE OSK-LEAF CLUSTER). -By direction of the President, under the provisions of Executive Order 9419, 4 February 1944 (Sec II, WD Bul 3, 1944), and pursuant to authority in AR 600-45, the Bronze Star Medal (FIRST BRONZE OSK-LEAF CLUSTER) with Letter "V" device for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States is awarded to the following named enlisted man:

Master Sergeant ROBERT D. BONNEY, RA17235712, Armor, Tank Company, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United states Army. On the night of 14 June 1953, the tank commanded by Sergeant BONNEY was dispatched from the friendly main line of resistance with the purpose of joining a tank task force near Hill "412" in the vicinity of Sagimak, Korea. As Sergeant BONNEY'S tank moved along the valley floor and penetrated the enemy held ground, it was subjected to heavy concentration of mortar and artillery fire. Sergeant BONNEY, remaining exposed in the tank commander's hatch, skillfully directed his tank to the pre-determined support position. Although the enemy shelling increased in intensity at this point, he maintained complete control of his tank and through accurate fire commands, directed supporting fire on the enemy troops and fortifications. The tank fire neutralized many of the enemy emplacements, materially aiding in the success of the raid. Sergeant Bonney's outstanding heroism and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal Service from Missouri.

 Source: Record Group 338: General Orders 3rd Infantry Division, Boxes 129 to 131 - National Archives and Records Administration, College Park, Maryland.