THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow marines. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever….

Dear Lcpl Robert Rusnak, Thank you for your service as an Antitank Assaultman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Happy Halloween. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

I was only 8 years old when I lost my dear Cousin Bobby. I remember, like it was yesterday, Uncle Ben and Aunt Rose receiving his Purple Heart, in his honor. 50 years later his memory, and the memory of thousands like him, still burn deeply in all our minds. We must NEVER forget the ultimate sacrifice these brave souls gave to give us the right to live our daily lives. May God bless your soul as you live in eternity with so many other departed members of our family. Your memory, nor your sacrifice, will not be forgotten.

Robert J. Rusnak

Silver Star
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS
DURING Vietnam War
Service: Marine Corps
Rank: Corporal
Battalion: 3d Battalion
Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF
GENERAL ORDERS:

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Robert J. Rusnak (MCSN: 2337996), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 9 September 1968, Company K was conducting a search and destroy operation in Quang Tri Province when it suddenly came under intense fire from a large North Vietnamese Army unit and sustained several casualties. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Rusnak unhesitatingly assisted in deploying his squad and directing the delivery of accurate suppressive fire upon the hostile positions. Alertly observing a fellow Marine lying wounded in an open area and dangerously exposed to the enemy fire, he completely disregarded his own safety and rushed across the fire-swept terrain to aid his injured comrade. In this courageous attempt to reach the casualty, Corporal Rusnak was mortally wounded by the heavy volume of enemy small arms fire. His heroic actions and sincere concern for his fellow Marines inspired all who observed him. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, Corporal Rusnak upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice. Thank you for stepping up and answering your country's call. Rest easy knowing you will never be forgotten.