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Arlington, VA – On the 81st anniversary of the historic Battle of Midway, Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO), Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti, bestowed the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation to WWII veteran, Chief Petty Officer Bill Norberg. The ceremony took place during a commemorative event at the Army Navy Country Club on June 4.
Norberg, who served on the USS Enterprise (CV 6) as the commanding officer’s phone talker during the Battle of Midway, expressed his pride in being part of the ship and crew that played a pivotal role in ending the Pacific War.
The Battle of Midway, which occurred from June 3-7, 1942, symbolizes the courage and heroism of American Sailors. The relentless efforts during the multi-day engagement successfully halted the Japanese navy’s advance across the Pacific.
Before the Battle of Midway, Norberg participated in crucial engagements like the Doolittle Raid. Despite the recognition, Norberg insisted his fellow Sailors deserve the credit for their extraordinary efforts.
The USS Enterprise played a significant role in the Battle of Midway, helping to sink three Japanese aircraft carriers and a cruiser, thereby protecting the United States against the enemy’s advance in World War II.
Franchetti emphasized the yearly commemoration as a means to honor the brave heroes of Midway and to keep their values alive, which in turn ensures the U.S. Navy’s continued dominance at sea. The Battle of Midway marked a significant shift in the Pacific War, balancing the naval powers and initiating the U.S.’s offensive.
The USS Enterprise stands as the most decorated warship of WWII, with 20 Battle Stars, the Presidential Unit Citation, and the Navy Unit Commendation to its name. After serving on the Enterprise post-Midway until August 1945, Norberg moved to several other naval stations until his discharge in February 1947.
The Navy History and Heritage Command (NHHC), the keeper of U.S. naval history and heritage, advocates for maintaining these stories as part of our shared experience. NHHC oversees multiple activities including the Navy Department Library, Navy art and artifact collections, and 10 museums among others.
Source: US Navy
