History in the USMC

Sergeant Justin Rettenberger, a 28-year-old graduate of Southwestern High School, enlisted in the Marine Corps in November 1998. The Dubuque native was recruited out of Recruiting Substation Dubuque, Recruiting Station Des Moines, and the sub-station to which he is currently assigned. After recruit training, Rettenberger attended the School of Infantry and earned the military occupational specialty of rifleman. After graduating from the School of Infantry, he attended Marine Corps Security Force School and graduated as a fleet anti-terrorism security team member. His first assignment was as a security force member at MCSF Company Manama, Bahrain. Over the course of his career, he has served in a variety of roles, including platoon sergeant with 1st Marine Regiment and infantry squad leader and fire team leader with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. He has deployed twice to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Commendation

Sgt Rettenberger was awarded the Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat "V" for heroic achievement while serving as a squad leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, 1st Marine Division. On April 8, 2004, during Operation Vigilant Resolve, Sgt Rettenberger was leading his squad during a company offensive when they made contact with the enemy. He and one fire team pushed forward of two M1A1 Abrams tanks that were in support of his company. While under enemy fire, he provided decisive leadership as he directed accurate fire in support of the tanks. As the tanks began engaging other targets, Sgt Rettenberger moved forward alone, keeping the enemy pinned down, while also providing guidance to both the tanks and fire team. Without regard for his safety, he remained in an exposed position throughout this engagement and only rejoined his unit after the enemy had fled. His action clearly showed his selflessness, decisiveness, and outstanding courage under combat conditions.