Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private First Class (Marine)

Unit:

Rifle Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division "The Spearhead", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

March 4th, 1946

Awarded for:

Operation Detachment

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism as member of a Rifle Platoon serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 21 February 1945. When sudden enfilading fire from a by-passed enemy pillbox to the rear inflicted three casualties in his squad after it had penetrated 300 yards into strongly fortified hostile territory, Private First Class Anderberg voluntarily risked his life in a valiant attempt to wipe out the emplacement. With the devastating fire preventing contact with his platoon and the treatment and evacuation of wounded, he boldly crawled to the entrance of the pillbox under the withering shellfire and, with bayonet fixed and weapon firing, killing six Japanese in the fierce encounter. Mortally wounded during the action, Private First Class Anderberg by his daring initiative, outstanding fortitude and grave concern for the safety of his comrades in the face of almost certain death, had enabled his squad to evacuate the casualties and rejoin its platoon. His loyal spirit of self- sacrifice and great personal valor throughout reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Anderberg and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Serial 35221, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces (March 4, 1946).