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Charles Earl Pitser

Charles Earl Pitser

Bronze StarPurple HeartPrisoner of War Medal

Rank/Rate Torpedoman's Mate, Second Class
Service Number 385 94 01
Birth Date November 20, 1923
From Seattle, Washington
Decorations Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Prisoner of War Medal
Submarine USS Sculpin (SS-191)
Loss Date November 19, 1943
Location North of Oroluk Island near Truk
Circumstances Sunk by Japanese destroyer
Remarks Charles was born in Ontario, Oregon.
He survived the sinking of his boat, but was killed while being transported aboard Chuyo from Truk to Japan when it was sunk by USS Sailfish on December 4, 1943.

Please note that most sources mistakenly spell the island's name "Groluk."

Following is Charles' Bronze Star Citation:

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the BRONZE STAR MEDAL posthumously to
CHARLES EARL PITSER
TORPEDOMAN SECOND CLASS
UNITED STATES NAVY
for service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For meritorious service as a member of the Crew of the U.S.S. Sculpin during the Ninth War Patrol of that vessel in the Truk Island Area,
November 19, 1943. After his ship had been severely damaged and forced to the surface during a terrific enemy depth charge attack, PITSER instantly manned his gun despite the overwhelming fury of the enemy's five-inch gun barrage and continued his persistent fire until the SCULPIN succumbed to the Japanese superior firepower. By his indomitable fighting spirit and unfaltering devotion to duty, PITSER upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

For the President,

/s/ James Forestal
Secretary of the Navy

Photo and information courtesy of William Brown.  Additional information courtesy of Paul W. Wittmer.

 

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