S Sgt. Vern E. Mumm Awarded Silver Star For Action on Siapan
The following citation has been received by Miss Ethel Ogle of Williamsburg from her nephew, S Sgt. Vern E. Mumm:
United States Marine Corps
Headquarters
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific
C-O Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco.
In the name of the President of the United States, the Commanding Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, General, takes pleasure in awarding the SILVER STAR MEDAL to Platoon Sergeant Vern E. Mumm, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
For service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For the conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as platoon sergeant in a Marine rifle company on SIAPAN, MARIANAS ISLANDS, on the night of 15 June, 1944. Platoon Sergeant Mumm's platoon was assigned the defense of a very dangerous open flank, which the enemy was covering with heavy artillery and mortar fire. with his platoon leader, he unceasingly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to insure the steadfastness of his lines. He coolly directed the defense of the area against several attempted counter-attacks. When normal communications were impossible, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he moved through a barrage of enemy fire to bring up reinforcements. Later, Platoon Sergeant Mumm's platoon was pinned down by extremely close range machine gun fire, which was inflicting heavy casualties among his men, Platoon Sergeant Mumm moved forward in the direct line of enemy observation in an effort to locate this enemy strong point. In this advance, he killed several enemy riflemen who had been inflicting casualties upon his men. Throughout the operation, his initiative, skill, and courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
H.M. SMITH,
Lieutenant General,
U.S. Marine Corps.
Temporary Citation.
Source: Williamsburg Shopper, January 25, 1945, pg. 1
