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Major Awards To
Marine Corps
RAIDERS
And Attached Corpsmen
166 Awards
Compiled & Edited
By
C. Douglas Sterner
Medal of Honor (WWII)
Medal of Honor (Korea)
Navy Cross (WWII)
Army D.S.C. (WWII)
Raider Corpsmen
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CITATIONS & PHOTOS OF MAJOR AWARDS TO
MARINE CORPS RAIDERS AND ATTACHED NAVY CORPSMEN
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MAJOR AWARDS
TO
U.S. MARINE RAIDERS
AND
NAVY CORPSMEN WHO SERVED WITH THEM
Compiled & Edited
By
C. Douglas Sterner
SPECIAL THANKS TO RAIDER HISTORIAN
MAJOR JEROME BEAU (USMC, RET.)
Made Available By
HomeOfHeroes.com
P.O. Box 122
Pueblo, CO 81005
ALPHABETICAL ROSTER OF RECIPIENTS
Medal of Honor Awards to Marine Raiders
(WWII) ............................................................1
*Bailey, Kenneth Dillon ..................................... 1
Bush, Richard Earl ............................................ 1
Chambers, Justice Marion ................................ 2
Edson, Merritt Austin ........................................ 2
*Gurke, Henry ................................................... 3
*Thomason, Clyde A. ........................................ 3
*Walsh, William Gary ........................................ 3
Medal of Honor Awards to Marine Raiders
(KOREA) ..........................................................5
*Red Cloud, Mitchell ......................................... 5
Navy Cross Awards to Marine Raiders (WWII)
.........................................................................6
*Ahrens, Edward Henry .................................... 6
*Allard, Robert V. .............................................. 6
*Allen, Thomas Joseph ..................................... 7
Antonelli, John W. ............................................. 7
*Arnold, Herman F. ........................................... 7
*Auman, Joseph M. .......................................... 8
*Barker, Harry B. ............................................... 8
Barnes, William ................................................. 8
Beans, Fred D. .................................................. 9
Berault, Joseph V. ............................................ 9
*Branch, James M. ........................................... 9
Broderick, John C. .......................................... 10
*Brown, Robert S. ........................................... 10
Burak, Walter John ......................................... 10
*Cail, Elden H.................................................. 11
Cammack, Osborn .......................................... 11
Carlson, Evans Fordyce ................................. 11
Carlson, Evans Fordyce ................................. 12
*Connolley, Joseph E. .................................... 12
*Cook, Dallas H............................................... 12
Corzine, Jimmy W. .......................................... 13
Coyte, Ralph H................................................ 13
Craven, Howard R.
AKA William Bernard Murphree ................. 13
Darling, Willard D. ........................................... 14
*Dierker, Stanley ............................................. 14
Driskell, Joe R. ................................................ 14
*Dunham, Edward H. ...................................... 15
Edson, Merritt Austin ...................................... 15
Elliott, Ellsbury B. ............................................ 15
Ervin, Arthur B................................................. 16
Faltyn, Hubert J............................................... 16
Faulkner, James C.O. ..................................... 16
Fedorak, Michael P. ........................................ 17
Fournier, Joseph A.L. ..................................... 17
*Fox, Myles Crosby ......................................... 17
French. Nelson T. ........................................... 18
Garrett, Nolen M. ............................................ 18
Gay, Roy M. .................................................... 18
Goheen, Richard R. P. .................................... 19
Goss, Angus R. ............................................... 19
*Grassi, Everett B. .......................................... 19
Page 3
Griffith, Samuel B., II ....................................... 20
Hacker, Elmer ................................................. 20
*Hanna, William T. .......................................... 20
Harrison, Lawrence A. .................................... 21
*Helpingstine, Herbert ..................................... 21
Herwig, Robert J. ............................................ 21
*Heyliger, George ........................................... 22
Hills, Clifford C. ............................................... 22
Holdren, Lawrence H. ..................................... 22
*Hudspeth, Daniel W. ..................................... 23
*Hunniford, William J., Jr. ............................... 23
Hunt, Wilfred A. ............................................... 23
Jamison, Robert J. .......................................... 24
Johnson, Charles E......................................... 24
*Jovanovich, George C. .................................. 24
*Kerns, John I. ................................................ 25
*Key, Eugene M. ............................................. 25
Kingsley, Luke A., Jr. ...................................... 25
*Kops, Stanley D. ............................................ 26
Lamb, Charles T. ............................................ 26
Lang, Lawrence A. .......................................... 26
LaQuintano, James Joseph ............................ 27
LeFrancois, Wilfred S. .................................... 27
Liversedge, Harry Bluett ................................. 27
Liversedge, Harry Bluett ................................. 28
Maghakian, Victor ........................................... 28
*McAuliffe, John T. .......................................... 28
*McCaffery, Joseph P. .................................... 29
*Mears, Dwayne E. ......................................... 29
Mentch, Charles E. ......................................... 29
Mielke, John W. .............................................. 30
*Miller, Jack ..................................................... 30
*Moore, Ralph E., Jr........................................ 31
Murphy, John J., Jr. ........................................ 31
*Olbert, Richard N. .......................................... 31
*Oribiletti, Bruno .............................................. 32
Peatross, Oscar F. .......................................... 32
Pettus, Frances C. .......................................... 32
Plumley, Merwyn C. ........................................ 33
Powers, Robert A. ........................................... 33
Quirk, Brain J. ................................................. 33
*Riegel, James E. ........................................... 34
*Ringgold, Charles F. ...................................... 34
*Roberton, Donald R. A. ................................. 34
*Roberts, Francis E. ........................................ 35
Rogers, Neil L. ................................................ 35
Rogers, Raymond D. ...................................... 35
Roosevelt, James ........................................... 36
*Ruiz, Edward J. ............................................. 36
Sabini, John A. ................................................ 36
*Salzman, Edward E. ...................................... 37
Schneider, Robert G. ...................................... 37
Schrier, Harold George ................................... 37
Schwerin, William E. ....................................... 38
Sebock, Joseph .............................................. 38
*Selby, Robert B. ............................................ 38
*Sergo, Mike E. ............................................... 39
Shaheen, Albert J. .......................................... 39
Shapley, Alan .................................................. 39
Shively, Allen E. .............................................. 40
Slusser, John Harvey ...................................... 40
*Smith, Edward L., Jr. ..................................... 40
*Smith, Roger E. ............................................. 41
Spotts, Melvin John ........................................ 41
Stea, Anthony J. ............................................. 41
*Steinaker, Donald B. ..................................... 42
Stevenson, William D. ..................................... 42
Sullivan, Richard E. ........................................ 42
Sweeney, John B. ........................................... 43
*Tanner, Karl ................................................... 43
*Thomas, Dennis F. ........................................ 43
*Thompson, Woodrow R. ................................ 44
*Thostenson, Thorborn M. .............................. 44
Towne, Harry .................................................. 44
Vogel, Hugh A. ................................................ 45
Walt, Lewis William ......................................... 45
Walt, Lewis William ......................................... 46
Warner, Gordon .............................................. 46
*Wherry, John H.............................................. 46
Widdecke, Charles F. ..................................... 47
Wilcox, Nicholas A. ......................................... 47
*Wolf, Donald W.............................................. 48
Wygal, Edward R. ........................................... 48
Yancey, John .................................................. 48
Distinguished Service Cross Awards to Marine
Raiders (WWII) ............................................ 49
*Ayers, Gerald Lamson ................................... 49
*Bunn, Bennie M. ............................................ 49
*Cain, William F., Jr. ....................................... 50
*Corbett, John R. ............................................ 50
*Costello, Ray Frank ....................................... 50
*Easton, Charles S.......................................... 51
*Gilbert, Orra E. .............................................. 51
Gray, Olin M. ................................................... 51
Griffith, Samuel B., II ....................................... 52
Hash, Chester D. ............................................ 52
Holmgrain, Eric S. ........................................... 52
Johnson, Lowell A. .......................................... 53
*Maassen, Dale G. .......................................... 53
Novina, John ................................................... 53
*Phillips, Carl................................................... 54
Phillips, Weslie L. ............................................ 54
Pollard, Thomas D. ......................................... 54
*Regan, William A. .......................................... 55
*Sim, Alex M. .................................................. 55
Teague, Wauss R. .......................................... 55
*Tower, Everett L. ........................................... 56
Navy Cross Awards to Navy Corpsmen and
Medical Officers Attached to Marine Raiders
(WWII) ......................................................... 57
Coleman, Karl B. ............................................. 57
Eilers, Delbert Dale ......................................... 57
Kincannon, William Bruce ............................... 57
MacCracken, William B., II .............................. 58
Marsh, Wilbur Lee ........................................... 58
Mathis, Lloyd Thomas ..................................... 58
McLarney, Edward P. ..................................... 58
*Parker, Thaddeus .......................................... 59
Potter, Albert Marshall, Jr. .............................. 59
Roebuck, Gerald Edward ................................ 59
Skinner, Robert W., III .................................... 59
Stigler, Stephen L. .......................................... 60
Page 4
Medal of Honor Awards to
Marine Raiders (WWII)
*BAILEY, KENNETH DILLON
Major, U.S. Marine Corps
Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 12 & 13, 1942
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to Kenneth Dillon Bailey, Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary courage and heroic conduct above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding
Officer of Company C, First Marine Raider Battalion, during the enemy Japanese attack on
Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 12 and 13 September 1942. Completely
reorganized following the severe engagement of the night before, Major Bailey's company,
within an hour after taking its assigned position as reserve battalion between the main line
and the coveted airport, was threatened on the right flank by the penetration of the enemy
into a gap in the main line. In addition to repulsing this threat, while steadily improving his own desperately held
position, he used every weapon at his command to cover the forced withdrawal of the main line before a hammering
assault by superior enemy forces. After rendering invaluable service to the battalion commander in stemming the retreat,
reorganizing the troops and extending the reverse position to the left, Major Bailey, despite a severe head wound,
repeatedly led his troops in fierce hand-to-hand combat for a period of ten hours. His great personal valor while exposed
to constant and merciless enemy fire, and his indomitable fighting spirit inspired his troops to heights of heroic endeavor
which enabled them to repulse the enemy and hold Henderson Field. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his
country.
Born: 10/21/1910 at Pawnee, Oklahoma
Home Town: Pawnee, Illinois
BUSH, RICHARD EARL
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: April 16, 1945
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to Richard Earl Bush, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond
the call of duty as a squad leader serving with the Company C, First Battalion, Fourth
Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces, during the final
assault against Mount Yaetake on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 16 April 1945. Rallying his
men forward with indomitable determination, Corporal Bush boldly defied the slashing fury of concentrated Japanese
artillery fire pouring down from the gun-studded mountain fortress to lead his squad up the face of the rocky precipice,
sweep over the ridge, and drive the defending troops from their deeply entrenched position. With his unit, the first to
break through to the inner defense of Mount Yaetake, he fought relentlessly in the forefront of the action until seriously
wounded and evacuated with others under protecting rocks. Although prostrate under medical treatment when a Japanese
hand grenade landed in the midst of the group, Corporal Bush, alert and courageous in extremity as in battle,
unhesitatingly pulled the deadly missile to himself and absorbed the shattering violence of the exploding charge in his
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MEDAL OF HONOR AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
body, thereby saving his fellow Marines from severe injury or death despite the certain peril to his own life. By his
valiant leadership and aggressive tactics in the face of savage opposition, Corporal Bush contributed materially to the
success of the sustained drive toward the conquest of this fiercely defended outpost of the Japanese Empire. His constant
concern for the welfare of his men, his resolute spirit of self-sacrifice, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout
the bitter conflict enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Born: 12/23/1924 at Glasgow, Kentucky
Home Town: Glasgow, Kentucky
CHAMBERS, JUSTICE MARION
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
3d Assault Battalion Landing Team, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 19 - 22, 1945
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to Justice Marion Chambers, Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond
the call of duty as Commanding Officer of the Third Assault Battalion Landing Team,
Twenty-Fifth Marines, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 to 22 February 1945. Under a furious barrage of enemy
machinegun and small-arms fire from the commanding cliffs on the right, Colonel Chambers (then Lieutenant Colonel)
landed immediately after the initial assault waves of his battalion on D-day to find the momentum of the assault
threatened by heavy casualties from withering Japanese artillery, mortar rocket, machinegun, and rifle fire. Exposed to
relentless hostile fire, he coolly reorganized his battle-weary men, inspiring them to heroic efforts by his own valor and
leading them in an attack on the critical, impregnable high ground from which the enemy was pouring an increasing
volume of fire directly onto troops ashore as well as amphibious craft in succeeding waves. Constantly in the front lines
encouraging his men to push forward against the enemy's savage resistance, Colonel Chambers led the eight-hour battle
to carry the flanking ridge top and reduce the enemy's fields of aimed fire, thus protecting the vital foothold gained. In
constant defiance of hostile fire while reconnoitering the entire regimental combat team zone of action, he maintained
contact with adjacent units and forwarded vital information to the regimental commander. His zealous fighting spirit
undiminished despite terrific casualties and the loss of most of his key officers, he again reorganized his troops for
renewed attack against the enemy's main line of resistance and was directing the fire of the rocket platoon when he fell,
critically wounded. Evacuated under heavy Japanese fire, Colonel Chambers, by forceful leadership, courage, and
fortitude in the face of staggering odds, was directly instrumental in insuring the success of subsequent operations of the
5th Amphibious Corps on Iwo Jima, thereby sustaining and enhancing the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Born: 2/2/1908 at Huntington, West Virginia
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
EDSON, MERRITT AUSTIN
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 & 14, 1942
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to Merritt Austin Edson, Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty as
Commanding Officer of the First Marine Raider Battalion, with Parachute Battalion attached,
during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands on the night of 1314
September 1942. After the airfield on Guadalcanal had been seized from the enemy on 8
August, Colonel Edson, with a force of 800 men, was assigned to the occupation and defense of a ridge dominating the
jungle on either side of the airport. Facing a formidable Japanese attack which, augmented by infiltration, had crashed
through our front lines, he, by skillful handling of his troops, successfully withdrew his forward units to a reserve line
with minimum casualties. When the enemy, in a subsequent series of violent assaults, engaged our force in desperate
hand-to-hand combat with bayonets, rifles, pistols, grenades, and knives, Colonel Edson, although continuously exposed
to hostile fire throughout the night, personally directed defense of the reserve position against a fanatical foe of greatly
superior numbers. By his astute leadership and gallant devotion to duty, he enabled his men, despite severe losses, to
cling tenaciously to their position on the vital ridge, thereby retaining command not only of the Guadalcanal airfield, but
also of the 1st Division's entire offensive installations in the surrounding area.
Born: 4/25/1897 at Rutland, Vermont
Home Town: Burlington, Vermont
Other Award: Navy Cross (Nicaragua), Navy Cross w/Gold Star (WWII)
Page 2
MEDAL OF HONOR AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*GURKE, HENRY
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
3d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 9, 1943
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to Henry Gurke, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and courage above and beyond the call of duty while attached to the
Third Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon
Islands area on 9 November 1943. While his platoon was engaged in the defense of a vital
road block near Empress Augusta Bay on Bougainville Island. Private First Class Gurke, in
company with another Marine, was delivering a fierce stream of fire against the main
vanguard of the Japanese. Concluding from the increasing ferocity of grenade barrages that
the enemy was determined to annihilate their small, two-man foxhole, he resorted to a bold and desperate measure for
holding out despite the torrential hail of shells. When a Japanese grenade dropped squarely into the foxhole, Private First
Class Gurke, mindful that his companion manned an automatic weapon of superior fire power and therefore could
provide more effective resistance, thrust him roughly aside and flung his own body over the missile to smother the
explosion. With unswerving devotion to duty and superb valor, Private First Class Gurke sacrificed himself in order that
his comrade might live to carry on the fight. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
Born: 11/6/1922 at Neche, North Dakota
Home Town: Neche, North Dakota
*THOMASON, CLYDE A.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 & 18, 1942
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to Clyde A. Thomason, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for conspicuous heroism and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty during
the Marine Raider Expedition by the Second Marine Raider Battalion against the Japaneseheld island of Makin on 17 - 18 August 1942. Leading the advance element of the assault
echelon, Sergeant Thomason disposed his men with keen judgment and discrimination and,
by his exemplary leadership and great personal valor, exhorted them to like fearless efforts. On one occasion, he
dauntlessly walked up to a house which concealed an enemy Japanese sniper, forced in the door and shot the man before
he could resist. Later in the action, while leading an assault on an enemy position, he gallantly gave his life in the service
of his country. His courage and loyal devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the finest traditions
of the U.S. Naval Service.
Born: 5/23/1914 at Atlanta, Georgia
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia
*WALSH, WILLIAM GARY
Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company G, 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 27, 1945
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to William Gary Walsh, Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and
beyond the call of duty as leader of an assault platoon, attached to Company G, Third
Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 27 February 1945. With the advance of his company
toward Hill 362 disrupted by vicious machinegun fire from a forward position which guarded the approaches to this key
enemy stronghold, G/Sergeant Walsh fearlessly charged at the head of his platoon against the Japanese entrenched on the
ridge above him, utterly oblivious to the unrelenting fury of hostile automatic weapons fire and hand grenades employed
with fanatic desperation to smash his daring assault. Thrown back by the enemy's savage resistance, he once again led
his men in a seemingly impossible attack up the steep, rocky slope, boldly defiant of the annihilating streams of bullets
which saturated the area. Despite his own casualty losses and the overwhelming advantage held by the Japanese in
superior numbers and dominant position, he gained the ridge's top only to be subjected to an intense barrage of hand
grenades thrown by the remaining Japanese staging a suicidal last stand on the reverse slope. When one of the grenades
Page 3
MEDAL OF HONOR AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
fell in the midst of his surviving men, huddled together in a small trench, G/Sergeant Walsh, in a final valiant act of
complete self-sacrifice, instantly threw himself upon the deadly bomb, absorbing with his own body the full and terrific
force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he
saved his comrades from injury and possible loss of life and enabled his company to seize and hold this vital enemy
position. He gallantly gave his life for his country .
Born: 4/7/1922 at Roxbury, Massachusetts
Home Town: Roxbury, Massachusetts
Page 4
Medal of Honor Awards to Marine Raiders
(KOREA)
*RED CLOUD, MITCHELL
Corporal, U.S. Army
Company E, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division
Date of Action: November 5, 1950
Citation:
The Medal of Honor is presented to Mitchell Red Cloud, Corporal, U.S. Army, for
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action while
serving with Company E, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against
enemy aggressor forces at Chonghyon, Korea, on 5 November 1950. From his position on
the point of a ridge immediately in front of the company command post, Corporal Red Cloud
was the first to detect the approach of the Chinese Communist forces and give the alarm as the enemy charged from a
brush-covered area less than 100 feet from him. Springing up he delivered devastating pointblank automatic rifle fire into
the advancing enemy. His accurate and intense fire checked this assault and gained time for the company to consolidate
its defense. With utter fearlessness he maintained his firing position until severely wounded by enemy fire. Refusing
assistance he pulled himself to his feet and wrapping his arm around a tree continued his deadly fire again, until he was
fatally wounded. This heroic act stopped the enemy from overrunning his company's position and gained time for
reorganization and evacuation of the wounded. Corporal Red Cloud's dauntless courage and gallant self-sacrifice reflects
the highest credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.
General Order No. 26, April 25, 1951
Born: 7/2/1924 at Hatfield, Wisconsin
Home Town: Merrillan, Wisconsin
Page 5
Navy Cross Awards to Marine Raiders
(WWII)
*AHRENS, EDWARD HENRY
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Division
Date of Action: August 7 - 8, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Edward Henry Ahrens, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion during an attack against enemy Japanese
forces at Tulagi, Solomon Islands, on the night of 7 - 8 August 1942. While a member of a security detachment
protecting the right flank of his battalion, Private First Class Ahrens, with utter disregard for his own personal safety,
single-handed engaged in hand-to-hand combat a group of the enemy attempting to infiltrate the rear of the battalion.
Although mortally wounded, he succeeded in killing the officer in command of the hostile unit and two other Japanese,
thereby breaking up the attack. His great personal valor and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the defense of his country.
ComSoPac: Serial 804 (March 13, 1943)
Born: 11/4/1919 at Dayton, Kentucky
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio
*ALLARD, ROBERT V.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company B, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert V. Allard, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service above and beyond the call of duty as a member of a volunteer boat crew attached to Company B,
Second Marine Raider Battalion during action against the Japanese-held island of Makin, 17 - 18 August, 1942. Fully
aware of the hazards of an imminent enemy air attack, and with complete disregard for his own life, Sergeant Allard,
with four others, volunteered to take a boat to a point just outside a reef and shoot a line ashore to assist in evacuating
those men remaining on the beach. Caught on the sea, he was defeated in his valiant efforts by the violent strafing of his
boat by withering enemy machine-gun fire. His great personal valor and loyal spirit of self-sacrifice were in keeping with
the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Long Island, New York
Page 6
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*ALLEN, THOMAS JOSEPH
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: May 23, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Thomas Joseph Allen, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 23 May 1945. Volunteering to act as an ammunition carrier for a machinegun squad in his company, Staff Sergeant Allen and three of his comrades sustained wounds when the unit was pinned
down by heavy hostile mortar and automatic weapons fire. Deliberately exposing himself to the shattering Japanese
concentrations to bring down more effective fire upon the enemy, he staunchly remained in his vulnerable position and,
although receiving mortal wounds, continued to deliver covering fire upon the hostile positions until the three casualties
had been safely evacuated. By his indomitable fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Allen
undoubtedly saved the lives of his three comrades and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Cinc Pac: Serial 36935-46 (November 14, 1946)
Born: at Pennsylvania
Home Town: Catasauqua, Pennsylvania
ANTONELLI, JOHN W.
Major, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 19 - March 16, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John W. Antonelli, Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese Forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 16 March 1945. On 9 March, when the attack of his
Battalion was stopped by extremely heavy enemy fire, Major Antonelli fearlessly worked his way over fire-swept ground
to a small knoll forward of his front lines to make a reconnaissance. Although severely wounded while on this mission,
he refused to be evacuated until he had completed his reconnaissance and issued the necessary orders for the resumption
of the attack. After being sent to a field hospital, Major Antonelli voluntarily returned to his Command Post under a
heavy shelling and resumed command of his Battalion, remaining with it until ordered back to the hospital by his
Commanding Officer. A day later, he again joined his men and led them until evacuated from the island on 16 March, to
prevent further infection of his wounds. His inspiring leadership and indomitable fighting spirit reflect the highest credit
upon Major Antonelli and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 46924-45
*ARNOLD, HERMAN F.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Division
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Herman F. Arnold, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a
radio operator of the First Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces attacking the
Guadalcanal airfield on the Solomon Islands on the night of 13 - 14 September 1942. After he had become separated
from his own platoon and was unable to reestablish contact in the darkness, Private First Class Arnold with resolute
determination and courageous initiative, made his way to the front lines. There, with utter disregard for his own personal
safety, he entered into the thick of the fight and was killed in action. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his
country.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 19 (SofN Signed April 6, 1943)
Born: at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland
Page 7
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*AUMAN, JOSEPH M.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps
Company E, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 11, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Joseph M. Auman, Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving
with the Second Marine Raider Battalion during an engagement with the enemy Japanese forces at Asamana,
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 11 November 1942. When his company was forced by overwhelming enemy fire to
make a temporary withdrawal, Private Auman, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, manned a machine gun
and covered the retirement. Steadfastly remaining at his exposed position, he continued to fire his gun until killed by the
enemy. His dauntless courage and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the defense of his country.
Serial 0478 (May 3, 1943)
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
*BARKER, HARRY B.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company L, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Harry B. Barker, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on the Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July 1944. Landing on the heavily
fortified, fire-swept beachhead with the forward elements on D-Day, Captain Barker immediately moved inland to
reconnoiter the area then, returning to his troops, promptly led them to the best vantage point for supporting the forward
assault units. Critically wounded in the right arm by a Japanese sniper's bullet, he steadfastly refused first aid until the
situation had been stabilized. Then, after having his wound dressed, he subsequently returned to his troops and
personally led them in a vigorous, intensive assault against a hill vital to the advance of our forces despite withering
enemy fire which swept the area. Although he was mortally wounded during the fierce action, Captain Barker, by his
valiant and aggressive leadership had contributed to the success of our sustained drive toward the recapture of this
important enemy stronghold, and his unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave peril reflects the highest credit
upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 225 (January 25, 1945)
Home Town: Washington, Iowa
BARNES, WILLIAM
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to William Barnes, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion during combat actions against enemy Japanese forces on Lunga Ridge,
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. While the battalion was being subjected to
ferocious assaults by the enemy and in spite of a change in position, Private First Class Barnes, serving as gunner in a
mortar section, kept up an accurate and almost continuous fire against the advancing Japanese. With utter disregard for
his own personal safety, he courageously assisted in the evacuation of the wounded and the carrying of ammunition to
the front line units. In the closing hours of the battle he voluntarily joined these units and ably assisted them in
attempting the assaults until injured by enemy grenades. His cool courage, devotion to duty, and indomitable fighting
spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Page 8
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
BEANS, FRED D.
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding Officer, 3d Marine Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment,
Date of Action: November 9, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Fred D. Beans, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer, Third Raider Battalion, First Marine Raider Regiment, in action against Japanese forces on
Bougainville, Solomon Islands, 9 November 1943. Finding his advance pinned down by intense fire while preparing to
attack defensive Japanese positions, Lieutenant Colonel Beans unhesitatingly advanced his command post to the front
lines without regard for his own personal safety, rallied his men and immediately launched a furious counterattack.
Skillfully maneuvering his command for eight continuous hours, he fought gallantly, inflicting heavy casualties and
driving the enemy from its position. By his inspiring leadership, courage and intrepid fighting spirit, Lieutenant Colonel
Beans contributed essentially to the success of his Battalion in this hazardous engagement, and his great valor was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, ComSoPac: Serial 02198 (October 29, 1944)
BERAULT, JOSEPH V.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Battalion, 22d Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, III Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Joseph V. Berault, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third
Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 21 July 1944. During a
hostile night attack with rifles, machine guns and hand grenades, Private First Class Berault defended his foxhole and,
although hit in the mouth by an enemy grenade, quickly picked up the grenade and threw it back at the Japanese.
Throwing out four grenades before he was severely wounded, he crawled to a hospital corpsman for first aid. When a
grenade landed next to him while he was being treated, he put his foot on the grenade and shoved the corpsman out of
danger from the explosion. Wounded again by the explosion, he was being pulled to safety by another Marine when he
realized he was becoming a burden and asked to be left behind so that they could continue the fire fight. His courage and
devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Berault and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 00396 (February 6, 1945)
Born: at New Jersey
*BRANCH, JAMES M.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 26, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to James M. Branch, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism as a member of Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade,
during action against enemy Japanese forces on Orote Peninsula, Guam, Marianas Islands, on 26 July 1944. With his
squad pinned down by intense enemy automatic fire from a well- concealed pillbox while advancing across a clearing,
Private First Class Branch, on his own flank and his squad leader on the other, attempted to close in on the Japanese
emplacement but were forced by the fury of the barrage to take cover. Realizing the precarious position of his squad,
Private First Class Branch unhesitatingly risked his life to stand upright and advance on the pillbox. Fiercely returning
the enemy's persistent fire with his own automatic weapon while moving steadily forward, he killed two Japanese before
sustaining a mortal wound himself. By his courageous initiative, Private First Class Branch saved the lives of other
members of his squad and enabled them to flank and destroy the hostile emplacement. His valiant spirit of self-sacrifice
in the fulfillment of an extremely hazardous mission reflects the highest credit upon Private First Class Branch and the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 00444 (SofN Approved January 23, 1945)
Home Town: San Diego, California
Page 9
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
BRODERICK, JOHN C.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company C, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 1, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John C. Broderick, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving with Company C, Second Marine Raider Battalion during the landing attack in the Cape Torokina
area, Bougainville Island, British Solomon Islands, on 1 November 1943. Observing that a strongly fortified enemy
position was retarding the advance of his platoon, Private First Class Broderick fired his weapon with grim
determination, killing two Japanese ammunition carriers serving a machine gun, then fearlessly rushing forward, hurled a
hand grenade into the enemy emplacement and killed several more hostile soldiers. Although suffering from wounds in
the leg, he courageously assisted his comrades in destroying the machine gun, clearing the way for the advance of his
platoon. Private First Class Broderick's outstanding initiative and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, ComSoPac: Serial 0056 (January 4, 1944)
Born: at Iowa
Home Town: Iowa
*BROWN, ROBERT S.
Major, U.S. Marine Corps
Operations Officer, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert S. Brown, Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Operations
Officer of the First Marine Raider Battalion, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on the night of 13 - 14 September 1942. Adeptly reorganizing troops which had withdrawn from the main line of
resistance to the rear of the reserve line, Major Brown committed them to action under direction of the Battalion
Commander. Afterward, reporting for duty at a point along the line where a hostile breakthrough was imminent, he, with
proficient skill and complete disregard for his own personal safety, assisted in the defense of the position until he was
wounded by the explosion of a Japanese hand grenade. While he was being evacuated from the Battalion aid station, the
ambulance in which he was a passenger was subjected to merciless machine gun fire and he was killed. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
SPOT AWARD, CinC Pac: Serial 19 (January 2, 1943)
Home Town: Merion, Pennsylvania
BURAK, WALTER JOHN
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Walter John Burak, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion during the attack by enemy Japanese forces on the airport at Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 - 14 September 1942. Assigned as a messenger to the Battalion Commander,
Corporal Burak, defying the extreme danger of continual hostile fire, carried messages to subordinate unit commanders
along the front. With the telephone line running between points of vital strategic importance severed by enemy mortars,
he skillfully repaired the break and then, with the assistance of a comrade, laid a parallel line from the Battalion
switchboard to the forward observation post. As the battle grew more furious and the enemy began to envelop the left
flank of our position, endangering communication lines, Corporal Burak, alone and unassisted, procured a reel of
telephone wire and passing through enemy mortar, machine gun, and rifle fire, personally laid a direct wire from the
forward observation post to the division command post. His gallant intrepidity and fearless devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Untied States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, ComSoPac: Serial 298 (January 22, 1943)
Home Town: Greensburg, Pennsylvania
Page 10
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*CAIL, ELDEN H.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 28, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Elden H. Cail, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving as a Machine-Gunner with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade,
during the recapture of the enemy Japanese-held Island of Guam in the Marianas on 28 July 1944. An aggressive and
valiant fighter, unwavering in the performance of duty, Corporal Cail daringly risked his life to hold his gun on the line
in the face of the most devastating mortar and machine-gun fire of the enemy. Manning his weapon steadfastly through
two fierce hostile charges, he personally destroyed ten Japanese before sustaining a mortal wound and then continued his
determined fire until he succumbed. His exceptional fortitude, courageous initiative and self-sacrificing service reflect
the highest credit upon Corporal Cail and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004211 (January 4, 1945)
Home Town: Portland, Maine
CAMMACK, OSBORN
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
3d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 1, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Osborn Cammack, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in
action while serving as a platoon scout with the Third Marine Raider Battalion during a landing on Puruata Island,
Solomon Islands, November 1, 1943. Although gravely wounded in the left leg and both ankles when a persistent rain of
withering fire from a hostile machine-gun nest immobilized his platoon during an assault on a strongly organized enemy
position, Private First Class Cammack courageously disregarded his own serious condition, crawling under the barrage
of mortar and machine-gun fire from a position of relative protection to a place near the enemy emplacement. From this
vantage point he expertly hurled a hand grenade which destroyed the gun and killed its crew of three Japanese, thus
enabling his comrades to advance safely. By his valiant initiative and outstanding devotion to duty, Private First Class
Cammack inspired his platoon to press home a vigorous attack which resulted in the destruction of all organized
opposition and his exemplary conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 0050 (CofN Signed August 26, 1944)
CARLSON, EVANS FORDYCE
(Second Award)
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Commanding Officer, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Evans Fordyce Carlson, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commanding Officer
of the Second Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on Makin
Island, 17 - 18 August 1942. In the first operation of this type ever conducted by United
States forces, Lieutenant Colonel Carlson personally directed his forces in the face of intense
fire of enemy ground troops and aerial bombing barrage, inflicting great personnel and
material damage on the enemy. In the withdrawal of his forces under adverse sea conditions, he displayed outstanding
resourcefulness, initiative and resolute purpose in evacuating all wounded and disabled men. His high courage and
excellent leadership throughout the engagement were in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
SPOT AWARD, October 1942
Born: 2/26/1896 at Sidney, New York
Home Town: Sidney, New York
Other Award: Navy Cross (2nd Nicaragua), Navy Cross w/2nd Gold Star (WWII)
Page 11
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
CARLSON, EVANS FORDYCE
(Third Award)
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Commanding Officer, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 4 - December 4, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Evans Fordyce Carlson, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and courage as leader of the Second Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese
forces in the British Solomon Islands during the period from 4 November to 4 December 1942. In the face of most
difficult conditions of tropical weather and heavy growth, Lieutenant Colonel Carlson led his men in a determined and
aggressive search for threatening hostile forces, overcoming all opposition and completing their mission with small
losses to our men while taking heavy toll of the enemy. His personal valor and inspiring fortitude reflect great credit
upon Lieutenant Colonel Carlson, his command and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, January 1943
Born: 2/26/1896 at Sidney, New York
Home Town: Sidney, New York
Other Award: Navy Cross (2nd Nicaragua), Navy Cross (WWII)
*CONNOLLEY, JOSEPH E.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Joseph E. Connolley, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his Battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River,
Corporal Connolly and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily
prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke,
fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately
in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Corporal Connolly refused to be dislodged from his
position and, after exacting a tremendous toll on the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit
and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Astoria, New York
*COOK, DALLAS H.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Dallas H. Cook, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service above and beyond the call of duty as a member of a volunteer boat crew attached to the Second
Marine Raider Battalion, during action against the Japanese-held island of Makin, 17 - 18 August, 1942. Fully aware of
the hazards of an imminent enemy air attack, and with complete disregard for his own life, Sergeant Cook, with four
others, volunteered to take a boat to a point just outside a reef and shoot a line ashore to assist in evacuating those men
remaining on the beach. Caught on the sea, he was defeated in his valiant efforts by the violent strafing of his boat by
withering enemy machine-gun fire. His great personal valor and loyal spirit of self-sacrifice were in keeping with the
finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Home Town: Red Jacket, West Virginia
Page 12
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
CORZINE, JIMMY W.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Jimmy W. Corzine, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
a member of the First Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces about one thousand yards
south of the Guadalcanal airfield, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. Working his way forward
under intense hostile fire, Private First Class Corzine came upon four Japanese who wee moving a machine gun into a
position of particular advantage. With courageous determination and complete disregard for his own personal safety, he
engaged the enemy single-handed, bayoneting the leader, routing the other three and capturing the machine gun. Turning
the weapon upon the fleeing Japanese, he kept it in effective action until the ammunition was expended, then disabled it
and with the aid of other men who had come forward to join him, held stubbornly to his advanced position on the face of
persistent hostile attacks. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds,
contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
SPOT AWARD, 1943, Serial 19
COYTE, RALPH H.
Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company B, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Ralph H. Coyte, Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous courage as Commanding Officer of Company B of the Second Marine Raider Battalion in action against the
Japanese-held island of Makin, 17 - 18 August, 1942. With keen judgment and decisiveness in tactical combat, Major
Coyte disposed a portion of his company into the center of the line and succeeded in outflanking an enemy machine-gun
position which had been holding up the advance. His personal valor and coolness under fire reflect great credit upon
Major Coyte, his command and the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Spicer, Colorado
Home Town: Coalmont, Colorado
CRAVEN, HOWARD R. AKA WILLIAM BERNARD MURPHREE
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 & 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Howard R. Craven, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
and conspicuous devotion to duty as a member of the Second Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy
Japanese-held island of Makin on August 17 & 18, 1942. During a very critical period of the fight, Private First Class
Craven, in company with a comrade, fighting valiantly and with great determination, defeated successive and violent
counter measures of enemy Japanese and succeeded in holding the left flank of the assault echelon. His courageous and
determined action, performed with complete disregard for his own personal safety, was a vital factor in the success of the
raiding force and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Howard Craven was the
name under which this Marine served and was awarded the Navy Cross. His name was later legally changed to William
Bernard Murphree.)
SPOT AWARD, SofN Signed November 21, 1942
Born: at Madison, Tennessee
Home Town: Nashville, Tennessee
Page 13
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
DARLING, WILLARD D.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
U.S.S. Oklahoma
Date of Action: December 7, 1941
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Willard D. Darling, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps,
for heroic action, extraordinary courage, and utter disregard for his own safety while under
heavy enemy fire, during the attack on the Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, by
Japanese forces on December 7, 1941. While being evacuated from the U.S.S. Oklahoma in a
motor launch, upon seeing an officer in the water too weak to swim and apparently drowning,
Corporal Darling dove from the motor launch, swam to the officer and kept him afloat until
another motor launch which he hailed picked them up. Upon being left alone in the motor
launch with this officer, in the vicinity of a dredge pipe line in the harbor, where the crew abandoned the motor launch,
he jumped into the water and directed the officer to follow him, which he (the officer) did. However, the officer was too
exhausted to swim and was brought ashore by Corporal Darling. The action of Corporal Darling, in the face of the severe
enemy bombing and strafing which continued throughout the time he was effecting this rescue, is considered most
praiseworthy and in accordance with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on April 30, 1942
Born: 12/16/1918 at Wilson, Oklahoma
Home Town: Wilson, Oklahoma
*DIERKER, STANLEY
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company M, 3d Marine Raider Battalion, 2d Marine Raider Regiment (Provisional), V Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: November 9, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Stanley Dierker, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with a platoon of Company M, Third Battalion, Second Marine Raider Regiment, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Bougainville Island, 9 November 1943. Participating with his platoon in the defense of a vital road
block on Numa Numa Trail, Private First Class Dierker encountered an overwhelming Japanese force which swept his
platoon with machine-gun fire and hand and knee mortar grenades, forcing them to withdraw to a better defensive
position. Courageously remaining behind to cover the withdrawal, he retained his firing position in a shallow foxhole
and, by cool and deliberate fire, personally accounted for fifteen of the enemy before he himself was killed. By his
gallant spirit of self-sacrifice, Private First Class Dierker contributed materially to the successful withdrawal of his
platoon which subsequently participated in the utter defeat of the hostile forces in this area. His valiant fighting spirit was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
ComSoPac: Serial 0055 (September 9, 1946)
Born: at Red Bluff, California
Home Town: Red Bluff, California
DRISKELL, JOE R.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
U.S.S. Nevada
Date of Action: December 7, 1941
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Joe R. Driskell, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for distinguished service in the line of his
profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of his own life during the attack on the Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory
of Hawaii, by Japanese forces on December 7, 1941. Corporal Driskell, the gun captain of No. 9 broadside gun of the
U.S.S. Nevada, was seriously wounded and burned, and most of his clothing burned off when a bomb exploded in the
immediate vicinity of his gun. Disregarding his condition, he insisted on manning another gun after his own was
wrecked. Despite serious leg wounds, he refused to join the wounded, but assisted other wounded men instead, and then
joined fire-fighting squads which contributed materially to bringing the fires under control. His actions at all times were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Prepared March 5, 1942
Born: 9/22/1916 at Tere Haute, Indiana
Home Town: Terre Haute, Indiana
Page 14
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*DUNHAM, EDWARD H.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: June 23, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Edward H. Dunham, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a
Platoon Leader, serving with Company B, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 23 June 1945. Exposing himself to heavy sniper fire, Corporal
Dunham effectively directed tank fire into two Japanese pillboxes, preparing the way for his company to continue its
patrol and advance over the next ridge. Fully realizing the immediate danger when his platoon was again pinned down by
heavy automatic weapons fire from a well-concealed cave, so situated that tank fire was ineffective and all approaches to
it were devoid of cover and swept by fire, he quickly prepared a satchel charge and, running through the heavy fire to the
entrance of the cave, succeeded in wiping out this stronghold before he was observed and fatally wounded by another
Japanese sniper. By his extreme bravery, skillful tactics under fire and valiant fighting spirit, Corporal Dunham greatly
aided in crushing enemy resistance at vital points, thus insuring his company's successful advance. His unwavering
devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 52752 (January 29, 1946)
Born: at Pleasant Ridge, Michigan
Home Town: Pleasant Ridge, Michigan
EDSON, MERRITT AUSTIN
(Second Award)
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding Officer, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 7 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Merritt Austin Edson, Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Tulagi combat Group during the
landing assault on enemy Japanese- held Tulagi Island, British Solomon Islands, August 7 to
9, 1942. In personal command of the First Marine Raider Battalion during the initial
operation, colonel Edson advanced the attack of his Battalion and its supporting units with
suck skill, courage and aggressiveness that he was an inspiration to the entire Combat Group
and was directly responsible for the capture of Tulagi Island. His gallant conduct throughout this hazardous action was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Serial 1113 (February 25, 1944)
Born: 4/25/1897 at Rutland, Vermont
Home Town: Burlington, Vermont
Other Award: Medal of Honor (WWII), Navy Cross (Nicaragua)
ELLIOTT, ELLSBURY B.
Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Ellsbury B. Elliott, Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous devotion to duty as leader of the Second Platoon, Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion during action
against the Japanese-held island of Makin on 17 - 18 August, 1942. Despite continuous harassing by enemy snipers and
repeated charges by ground troops, Gunnery Sergeant Elliott, by his extreme personal valor, inspired his platoon to great
heights of achievement during the early stages of the fight, not only in holding persistently the left flank of the Battalion
position but in advancing further into enemy territory, dislocating their assistance. His skillful leadership and determined
aggressiveness were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Seaford, California
Home Town: Oakland, California
Page 15
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
ERVIN, ARTHUR B.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 1, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Arthur B. Ervin, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving
with Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces during the invasion of Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, on 1 February 1944. Advancing with his company around
the eastern perimeter of the Island, corporal Ervin skillfully located and led the attack upon each hostile strong point in
this zone of action. Although wounded in a single-handed assault upon an enemy heavy machine-gun nest, he returned to
initiate a raid into an occupied blockhouse and, after climbing to a dangerously exposed position on its top, immediately
poured rifle fire into a near-by Japanese trench fortification and exhorted his comrades to press home their attack. When
painfully wounded for the second time, he gallantly refused to let anyone endanger himself by coming forward to help
and, after pulling himself to safety and having his wounds dressed, retired only on the orders of his Commanding
Officer. His determined fighting spirit and inspiring performance of duty throughout these bitter engagements reflect the
highest credit upon Corporal Ervin and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, CinC Pac: Serial 2788
Born: at McCurtain, Oklahoma
Home Town: Detroit, Texas
FALTYN, HUBERT J.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company D, 2d Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: March 13 - 16, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Hubert J. Faltyn, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while serving with Company D, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 13 to 16 March 1945. When all company officers had been
rendered casualties in a drive on formidable and well-concealed enemy positions on 13 March, Sergeant Faltyn
unhesitatingly assumed command of the Company. Fearlessly running from platoon to platoon to give orders and
encourage his men in the face of intense hostile fire from numerous caves on high ground to the front, he reorganized the
company and boldly led it forward to seize the objective. Although wounded in a fierce hand grenade exchange the next
day, he directed the building of a road leading to the Japanese positions, organized tanks for support and personally led
his men in a long advance against a series of hostile caves and pillboxes. Sustaining wounds a second time on 15 March,
he again remained on the field of battle and personally led his company up a rocky hill through deadly rifle and mortar
fire. Gaining the objective, he skillfully organized a defensive position and inspired his depleted forces to hold their
ground until relieved the following day. His courageous leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and gallant devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 44532
Born: at Exeter, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Exeter, Pennsylvania
FAULKNER, JAMES C.O.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 & 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to James C.O. Faulkner, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while a
member of the Second Marine Raider Battalion during action against the Japanese-held island of Makin on 17 - 18
August, 1942. Though painfully wounded, Sergeant Faulkner continued at his post, urging his men to great effort and
inspiring them by his fine example of personal valor. Finally, when weak from loss of blood after being seriously
wounded in the side and leg, he consented to be evacuated for medical attention. His courageous determination and
gallant devotion to duty at great peril to his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Duncanville, Texas
Home Town: Red Oak, Texas
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
FEDORAK, MICHAEL P.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Michael P. Fedorak, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on October 8, 1942. When hostile forces
attacked the position of Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion, along the mouth of the Matanikau River, Private
First Class Fedorak, with cool courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety, manned a light machine gun by
himself, reversed the gun's position and engaged the enemy until his weapon jammed. Having halted the first assault and
killed approximately fifteen Japanese, he calmly removed the back plate from his gun and withdrew. His gallant
devotion to duty contributed materially to our cause and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 00192 (SofN Signed April 2, 1943)
Born: at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
FOURNIER, JOSEPH A.L.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company G, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division
Date of Action: September 15 - 19, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Joseph A.L. Fournier, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism as Commanding Officer of Company G, Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division, operating
against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island in the Palau Group, from 15 to 19 September 1944. Boldly countering
the attack of a strong hostile force penetrating our lines on 15 September, First Lieutenant Fournier repulsed the enemy
and resolutely held his lines intact through the night. On the following morning he took a small patrol forward and,
locating an automatic gun battery delivering enfilade fire across a strategic airfield, charged furiously, killing twenty
Japanese and knocking out the deeply entrenched fortification which had been holding up the advance of an entire
battalion. Determined to annihilate the enemy, he pressed through to the high ground overlooking the airdrome, seizing
the position despite heavy resistance and holding it against desperate counterattack. Continuing his relentless drive into
the fourth day, he persistently sought out and destroyed obstinate gun emplacements. When his battalion was again
pinned down by a merciless barrage on 19 September, he braved the shattering fusillades to work forward with five
others and succeeded in neutralizing the hostile firepower for approximately five hours then, reorganizing his seriously
depleted force, broke through stubborn enemy defenses on a high ridge with minimum casualties executing a sharp thrust
which spearheaded the battalion's advance into a fanatically defended area vital to the success of our forces. Struck down
by a burst of machine-gun fire while leading the final assault, First Lieutenant Fournier, by his indomitable leadership,
intrepid spirit and sustained aggressiveness through five days and our nights of bitter, unceasing hostilities, contributed
essentially to the ultimate conquest of this Japanese base, and his great personal valor upheld the highest traditions of the
Unites States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 00132 (February 13, 1945)
*FOX, MYLES CROSBY
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company E, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 7 - 8, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Myles Crosby Fox, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
attached to Company E, First Marine Raider Battalion, during the seizure of Tulagi, Solomon Islands, on the night of
August 7 - 8, 1942. When a hostile counterattack threatened to penetrate the battalion line between E and B Companies,
First Lieutenant Fox, although mortally wounded, personally directed the deployment of personnel to cover the gap. As a
result of his great personal valor and skillful tactics, the enemy suffered heavy losses and their attack was repulsed. First
Lieutenant Fox by his dauntless devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 909 (May 24, 1943)
Born: 10/13/1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: Stamford, Connecticut
Page 17
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
FRENCH. NELSON T.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to French. Nelson T. French., Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River,
Corporal French and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily
prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke,
fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately
in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile force, Corporal French refused to be dislodged from his
position and, after exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit
and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Benton County, Tennessee
Home Town: Camden, Tennessee
GARRETT, NOLEN M.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company D, 2d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: March 9, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Nolen M. Garrett, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving
as a Section Leader in a Machine Gun Platoon of Company D, Second Battalion, Twenty- Seventh Marines, Fifth Marine
Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 9 March 1945. Although wounded
a few moments before, Sergeant Garrett voluntarily advanced ahead of the lines in the face of heavy enemy fire to guide
supporting tanks in locating furiously resisting and well-concealed Japanese emplacements. Unable to make his signals
understood, he further exposed himself to hostile fire by climbing on the front of the tank and entering it through the
escape hatch. Skillfully directing the tank and the two others accompanying it, he contributed materially to the success of
the mission, refusing evacuation until the hostile strong point had been softened for further attacks. His courage and
zealous devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Garrett and the United States Naval Service.
Serial 45501
Born: at Shidler, Oklahoma
Home Town: Hobbs, New Mexico
GAY, ROY M.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company D, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Roy M. Gay, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion, during an attack by enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. While the defensive positions were under heavy attack by strong forces
of the enemy, Sergeant Gay, assisted by one other, installed the vital telephone line from the command post to the
forward observation post of the Battalion Commander. Although completely exposed to heavy enemy mortar, machine
gun and rifle fire, he finished the line and closed the gap in communications, enabling the Battalion Commander to
maintain contact with the defending forces. His outstanding courage, skill, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Lakeland, Florida
Home Town: Fitzgerald, Georgia
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
GOHEEN, RICHARD R. P.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company E, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: May 19 - 21, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Richard R. P. Goheen, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, from 19 to 21 May 1945. Although wounded in the right side by a
mortar fragment during combat with the Japanese on 19 May, First Lieutenant Goheen refused immediate treatment until
his platoon had gained a more advantageous position. When finally evacuated to the Battalion Aid Station, he gave
invaluable information to the Battalion Commander concerning strongly defended cave emplacements facing his
Company. Despite his painful wound, he insisted on returning to his platoon the following day and, while courageously
leading his men in a daring assault against a key ridge position on 21 May, was wounded in the face and leg by an enemy
hand grenade. Aware of the critical phase of the battle, he again refused to be evacuated and, in the face of intense
machine-gun, mortar and grenade fire, continued to lead his platoon in the assault for four hours, thereby making
possible the capture of this advantageous terrain. His courage and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
FMF Pac: Serial 86000 (June 3, 1948)
Born: at Venguria, India
Home Town: Princeton, New Jersey
GOSS, ANGUS R.
Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 10, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Angus R. Goss, Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with a detachment of the First Marine Raider Battalion in combat against enemy Japanese forces on Tulagi,
Solomon Islands, on August 10, 1942. Although severely wounded by the explosion of a grenade thrown by the enemy,
gunnery Sergeant Goss, in the face of machine-gun and rifle fire, charged into the cave where a hostile machine gun and
snipers were entrenched and, single-handed, destroyed the Japanese with a sub-machine gun. His indomitable fighting
spirit and extreme courage undoubtedly saved the lives of other members of his detachment and were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on October 8, 1943
Born: 1/8/1910 at Tampa, Florida
Home Town: Tampa, Florida
*GRASSI, EVERETT B.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company L, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: April 2, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Everett B. Grassi, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving as a member of a Machine Gun Squad in a platoon of Company L, Third Battalion, Fourth
Marines, Sixth Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 2 April
1945. With his squad leader wounded and his platoon's advance disrupted by intense enemy small-arms fire, Private First
Class Grassi unhesitatingly assumed command of the unit and, leading his men forward to an advantageous firing
position, delivered extremely accurate streams of machine-gun bullets upon the fanatic Japanese. Quick to act when two
of his comrades were seriously wounded, he boldly proceeded to one of the Marines and succeeded in removing him to
the comparative safety of a shell hole. Although painfully wounded as he returned to rescue the second man, Private First
Class Grassi stubbornly continued to make his way forward until he was again struck by hostile fire and fatally wounded.
By his indomitable fighting spirit, daring initiative and gallant concern for the welfare of others, he saved the life of a
man who otherwise might have perished, and contributed to the success of his company's offensive. His heroic conduct
and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of certain peril were an inspiration to those with home he served and reflect
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
the highest credit upon Private First Class Grassi and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
CinC Pac: Serial 36922 (November 8, 1945)
Born: at New Rochelle, New York
Home Town: Englewood, New Jersey
GRIFFITH, SAMUEL B., II
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Headquarters, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 27, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Samuel B. Griffith, II, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism while leading the First Marine Raider Battalion against
enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Matanikau, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on
September 27, 1942. With the only other field officer of the battalion killed that morning, and
with his men greatly outnumbered and almost completely surrounded by the enemy,
Lieutenant Colonel Griffith moved forward to a position where he could reconnoiter the
ground in front of him, in order to effectively employ the troops and weapons under his
command. While on this mission, he was painfully wounded by an enemy sniper bullet. Refusing to relinquish command
of his troops or leave them without a field officer to control the situation, he returned to his post and personally directed
the movements of the battalion throughout the remainder of the afternoon. Later, when relieved by a superior officer, he
was finally evacuated to a hospital. By his outstanding leadership, great personal courage, and utter disregard for his own
safety in a desperate situation, he maintained the confidence of his subordinate officers and the morale of his troops who
fought valorously throughout the remainder of the day. By his dauntless leadership, sustained valor and self-sacrificing
devotion to duty under critical combat conditions, Lieutenant Colonel Griffith upheld the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Lewistown, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Frankfort, Kentucky
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII)
HACKER, ELMER
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company B, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 7 - 8, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Elmer Hacker, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous devotion to duty in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Tulagi, Solomon Islands, on
the night of August 7 - 8, 1942, while a member of the First Marine Raider Battalion. When it became imperative for his
company to be moved from its bivouac area to a position in readiness to meet a hostile counterattack which threatened
the entire operation, Private First Class Hacker was sent from the Command Post to guide Company B to its assigned
position. Despite intense hostile sniper fire and encounters with numerous small enemy groups en route, he successfully
accomplished his mission with the result that the enemy was beaten back with severe losses. His dauntless and intrepid
conduct throughout the engagement was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
Born: at South Fork, Kentucky
Home Town: South Fork, Kentucky
*HANNA, WILLIAM T.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to William T. Hanna, Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving
with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River, Private
Hanna and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily prepared
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked
the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-to-hand
combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Private Hanna refused to be dislodged from his position and, after
exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding
devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Private Hanna gallantly
gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
HARRISON, LAWRENCE A.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 12 - 13, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Lawrence A. Harrison, Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on the night of September 12 - 13, 1942. While on duty with a rifle unit which was overrun and
isolated by the Japanese, Platoon Sergeant Harrison immediately took charge of the men under his command and
directed his machine-gun fire with such telling accuracy and determination that the enemy was halted. At daybreak of
September 13, realizing that his section was completely surrounded by hostile forces, he dauntlessly fought his way
through their lines toward the rear, finally bringing the men and weapons under his command safely through the enemyinfested area. His prowess, leadership and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Benton, Kansas
Home Town: Benton, Kansas
*HELPINGSTINE, HERBERT
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 26, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Herbert Helpingstine, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
as bazooka man serving with the First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in
action against the enemy Japanese forces on Orote Peninsula, Guam, Marianas islands, 26 July 1944. When the first
platoon was pinned down by a withering barrage from an enemy pillbox during an advance across an open field,
Corporal Helpingstine unhesitatingly left his place of comparative safety and fearlessly proceeded to a position on the
firing line. Again exposing himself to intense hostile fire in order to obtain a new position closer to the Japanese
emplacement, he knelt and coolly sighted his objective but was struck down by a sudden volley from enemy guns before
he could use his weapon. Although mortally wounded, Corporal Helpingstine resumed his position and, fighting with
determined aggressiveness, succeeded in silencing the Japanese pillbox with a well-aimed burst of fire. By his daring
initiative and great personal courage in the face of grave peril, he contributed materially to the saving of many lives, and
his valiant conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004313 (January 11, 1945)
Born: at Whiting, Indiana
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri
HERWIG, ROBERT J.
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, III Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: July 21 & 28, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert J. Herwig, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism as a Rifle Platoon Leader, attached to the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional
Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Guam in the
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
Marianas Group, on 21 and 28 July 1944. Although wounded while directing his platoon under exceptionally heavy
hostile mortar and machine-gun fire, Second Lieutenant Herwig remained with his men, reorganized them and
contributed to their success in repulsing an enemy counterattack. Evacuated for medical treatment, he returned
immediately to duty with his company. Displaying unusual skill and courage during a later action, he led his men in
repelling two Japanese counterattacks and, although wounded during the last one, refused to be evacuated until the
completion of the action. His great personal valor and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant
Herwig and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 0296-295
Born: at Woodford, California
Home Town: Pomona, California
*HEYLIGER, GEORGE
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to George Heyliger, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the
Matanikau River, Private First Class Heyliger and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy
assault against their hastily prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth
under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and
bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Private First Class
Heyliger refused to be dislodged from his position and, after exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at
his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Concord, Massachusetts
HILLS, CLIFFORD C.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 7 - 8, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Clifford C. Hills, Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
courage in action against enemy Japanese armed forces during the seizure of Tulagi, Solomon Islands on the night of
August 7 - 8, 1942, while a member of the First Marine Raider Battalion. When an enemy Japanese detachment
penetrated his battalion and was laying down flanking fire into his company's position, Platoon Sergeant Hills, on his
own initiative and at the risk of his life, moved forward to within twenty yards of hostile machine guns, and with his
automatic rifle, silenced the guns and destroyed the enemy personnel manning them. His daring and prompt action
undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades and materially contributed to thwarting the Japanese counterattack. His great personal valor and loyalty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
Born: at Seattle, Washington
Home Town: Stanfield, Oregon
HOLDREN, LAWRENCE H.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 12 - 13, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Lawrence H. Holdren, Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
Island, Solomon Islands, September 12 - 13, 1942. Commanding a section of machine guns during a savage night
engagement on Lunga Ridge, Platoon Sergeant Holdren, although his gun positions were surrounded by the enemy after
the withdrawal of an adjacent friendly unit, courageously rallied his men and with fierce tenacity held his strategic post
for more than nine hours. Through his skillful direction of their accurate gunfire, he enabled his command to repel
several vicious enemy attacks with severe damage to the hostile forces, and thus gained invaluable time for his battalion
in the preparation of vital new lines. Platoon Sergeant Holdren's heroic conduct and valiant devotion to duty under
extremely hazardous conditions were an inspiration to his comrades and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 2761 (SofN Signed December 22, 1943)
Born: at Pond Gap, West Virginia
Home Town: Ward, West Virginia
*HUDSPETH, DANIEL W.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Daniel W. Hudspeth, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a
member of the First Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. Repeatedly leading his unit against hostile positions on a ridge about
one thousand yards south of the Guadalcanal airfield, Sergeant Hudspeth, by his inspiring courage in the face of
devastating fire, contributed to the relentless fighting spirit which aided greatly in the defeat of the Japanese forces. He
gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 19 (SofN Signed April 6, 1943)
Born: at Ashland, Mississippi
Home Town: Ashland, Mississippi
*HUNNIFORD, WILLIAM J., JR.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
3d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 21 - 27, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to William J. Hunniford, Jr., Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism while serving with the Third Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine
Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 21 to 27 July 1944. When the point of his
platoon was pinned down by intense enemy machine-gun fire during an advance across a rice field, Platoon Sergeant
Hunniford unhesitatingly made three trips into the open area and carried out wounded men. On 26 July, as his company
was committed to action, he personally cleaned out three hostile pillboxes by skillfully and effectively using smoke
grenades and entering the positions to kill the remaining defenders. Subsequently, under cover of automatic rifle fire, he
again attacked a Japanese pillbox and, accurately firing rifle grenades from a carbine, succeeded in destroying the
emplacement, but was mortally wounded by fierce enemy crossfire while attempting to neutralize another position.
Platoon Sergeant Hunniford's inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty
throughout these days of violent combat reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004199 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at Pockville, Connecticut
Home Town: Pockville, Connecticut
HUNT, WILFRED A.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 7, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Wilfred A. Hunt, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous devotion to duty in action with enemy Japanese forces during the attack on Tulagi, Solomon Islands, August
7, 1942 while a member of the First Marine Raider Battalion. With hostile machine-gun fire holding up the forward
movement of his squad, Private First Class Hunt, on his own initiative and at great risk to his life, rushed the enemy
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
position and, unaided, destroyed the Japanese machine-gunners with hand grenades. His great personal valor and
fearless, determined action in effectively removing the threat to his squad and clearing the way for its further advance,
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, October 1942
Born: at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
JAMISON, ROBERT J.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Battalion, 2d Marines, 2d Marine Division
Date of Action: July 9, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert J. Jamison, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company A, First Battalion, Second Marines, Second Marine Division,
during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 9 July 1944. On outpost duty alone during an
enemy night counterattack, Private First Class Jamison defended a rock crevice which led into his company lines and, by
annihilating twenty-five of the Japanese, the nearest falling within ten yards of his position, single-handedly repulsed a
hostile advance. His courage under fire, gallant fighting spirit and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private
First Class Jamison and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 9468
Born: at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Youngstown, Ohio
JOHNSON, CHARLES E.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company G, 3d Battalion, 29th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: June 6, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Charles E. Johnson, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in action while serving as a squad leader with Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 6 June 1945. Taking charge of the situation after his
platoon leader and a number of his comrades had become casualties during an attack on a strongly defended enemy
position, Private First Class Johnson reorganized the platoon which was being held up by heavy hostile machine-gun
fire. Then, aggressively leading the final assault on the objective, he personally charged two enemy machine guns with a
rocket launcher and, firing at point-blank range, destroyed both of the guns and their crews. After his platoon had
occupied the hill, Private First Class Johnson courageously exposed himself to hostile fire to assist in sealing three cave
positions from which the Japanese had been holding up the advance of adjacent Marine units. His gallant fighting spirit
and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 98301
Born: at Girard, Ohio
Home Town: Youngstown, Ohio
*JOVANOVICH, GEORGE C.
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
Date of Action: February 19, 1945
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to George C. Jovanovich, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
in action on February 19, 1945, at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*KERNS, JOHN I.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John I. Kerns, Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service above and beyond the call of duty as a member of a volunteer boat crew attached to the Second
Marine Raider Battalion, during action against the Japanese-held island of Makin, 17 - 18 August, 1942. Fully aware of
the hazards of an imminent enemy air attack, and with complete disregard for his own life, Private Kerns, with four
others, volunteered to take a boat to a point just outside a reef and shoot a line ashore to assist in evacuating those men
remaining on the beach. Caught on the sea, he was defeated in his valiant efforts by the violent strafing of his boat by
withering enemy machine-gun fire. His great personal valor and loyal spirit of self-sacrifice were in keeping with the
finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Lincoln, Nebraska
Home Town: Copperhill, Tennessee
*KEY, EUGENE M.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 7, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Eugene M. Key, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while attached to the First Marine Raider Battalion during an attack against enemy Japanese forces on Tulagi,
Solomon Islands, on August 7, 1942. When his platoon was attacked from the flank by a group of hostile snipers, First
Lieutenant Key, although mortally wounded, worked his way forward until he could throw hand grenades into the enemy
position. By his indomitable fighting spirit and outstanding skill, he destroyed Japanese resistance at this point and
enabled his platoon to advance without further loss. His great personal valor was in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the defense of his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 909 (May 24, 1943)
Born: at Conroe, Texas
Home Town: Dallas, Texas
KINGSLEY, LUKE A., JR.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, III Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Luke A. Kingsley, Jr., Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism while serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine
Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July
1944. Pinned down by intense enemy mortar, machine-gun and grenade fire from the far side of a ridge over which his
platoon was attempting to advance, Private First Class Kingsley braved the hostile fire to advance up the ridge where he
inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy with his automatic rifle and directed the fire of his platoon. Although wounded
seriously by Japanese fire, he remained in an unprotected position and delivered effective fire on the enemy for more
than an hour before being evacuated. His aggressive fighting spirit, courage in the face of hostile fire and devotion to
duty reflect the highest credit on Private First Class Kingsley and the United States Naval Service.
FMF Pac: Serial 0295 (SofN Signed March 24, 1950)
Born: at Memphis, Tennessee
Home Town: Memphis, Tennessee
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*KOPS, STANLEY D.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Stanley D. Kops, Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism as Commander of the Third Platoon, Company C, First Marine Raider Battalion, during action against enemy
Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. Assigned to a position on the
battalion reserve line about 1,000 yards south of the airfield, Platoon Sergeant Kops so inspired his men that his
outstanding bravery and disregard for his own safety, that they were able to hold that position against overwhelming
odds until ordered to take up a position to the rear. Upon orders of his Commanding Officer, he then organized another
platoon of men, separated from their own units in the darkness, and led them in a successful attack, repulsing the enemy
in vicious hand-to-hand combat. His courageous and exemplary leadership and his gallant devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
SPOT AWARD (December 1942) (SofN Signed February 22, 1943)
Born: at Hollywood, California
Home Town: New York, New York
LAMB, CHARLES T.
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Charles T. Lamb, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
outstanding courage while a member of the Second Marine Raider Battalion during action against the Japanese-held
island of Makin, on 17 - 18 August, 1942. When the commander of the First Platoon, Company A, was seriously
wounded, Second Lieutenant Lamb, displaying a fine spirit of initiative and determination, assumed command, but five
minutes later, he too was wounded in the head and shoulder. Waiting only to receive first aid, and weakened from loss of
blood, he returned to lead his platoon. On the second day of the raid, he led a small group in taking over an enemy sloop
and, upon arrival alongside in a row boat, he escaped fire at point-blank range, tossed a hand grenade through the port,
then boarded the sloop and destroyed the Japanese on guard. Throughout the engagement, his conspicuous fighting spirit
and utter disregard for his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Adershot, England
Home Town: Quantico, Virginia
LANG, LAWRENCE A.
Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company B, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Lawrence A. Lang, Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous courage as non-commissioned officer in command of a platoon of Company B, Second Marine Raider
Battalion, during action against the Japanese-held island of Makin on 17 - 18 August, 1942. Although suffering from a
shattered arm bone, received early in the engagement, Gunnery Sergeant Lang continued to lead his platoon until forced
by loss of blood to be evacuated. His personal valor and complete disregard for his own safety served to inspire his men
in holding the left flank during most of the action. His conscientious devotion to duty at great risk to his life was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Wheeling, West Virginia
Home Town: Wheeling, West Virginia
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
LAQUINTANO, JAMES JOSEPH
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company K, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: May 21, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to James Joseph LaQuintano, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company K, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 21 May 1945. Attempting to repel a fierce enemy
counterattack which was being launched against his company, Sergeant LaQuintano bravely exposed himself time after
time to devastating artillery, mortar and small-arms fire in order to place his men and automatic weapons in more
advantageous positions. Although wounded in the morning as a result of the intense machine-gun fire, he refused
evacuation and continued fighting, his only thought being to strengthen his company's position and repel the fanatical
Japanese counterattacks. After being wounded again in the afternoon, Sergeant LaQuintano still persisted at his post until
ordered from the line by a senior officer. His gallant fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were an inspiration
to his comrades and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 98301
Born: at Brackway, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
LEFRANCOIS, WILFRED S.
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Wilfred S. LeFrancois, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
and outstanding devotion to duty as leader of the First Platoon, Company A, Second Marine Raider Battalion, during
action against the Japanese-held island of Makin, on 17 - 18 August, 1942. By his discriminating disposal of the advance
guard, Second Lieutenant LeFrancois enabled it to engage the enemy effectively, initiating the fire with great success.
Displaying exemplary leadership and determination, he led his platoon in advance until severely wounded in the right
shoulder by enemy machine-gun fire. Throughout the engagement, his aggressiveness, courage and utter disregard for his
own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Gananoque, Ontario, Canada
LIVERSEDGE, HARRY BLUETT
(First Award)
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
3d Marine Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment,
Date of Action: July 5 - August 29, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Harry Bluett Liversedge, Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Marine Raider Regiment and the
Third Battalions of the 145th and 148th Infantries, U.S. Army, during operations on New
Georgia Island, British Solomon Islands, from July 5 to August 29, 1943. Gallantly leading
his troops through dense jungle into combat against a fanatic enemy long experienced in
jungle warfare and well-entrenched in strong positions, Colonel Liversedge commanded the
assault with cool and courageous determination. Although handicapped by extremely adverse weather conditions,
constant enemy fire and the difficult problems of supply, he skillfully coordinated his forces and those of cooperating
units and, relentlessly forced the Japanese to withdraw. Colonel Liversedge's aggressive fighting spirit and brilliant
leadership contributed immeasurably to the success of the New Georgia Campaign and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD: Serial 01914 (March 21, 1944)
Born: 9/21/1894 at Volcano, California
Home Town: Berkeley, California
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (WWII)
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
LIVERSEDGE, HARRY BLUETT
(Second Award)
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding Officer, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 19 - March 27, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Harry Bluett Liversedge, Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of the Twenty-Eighth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 27 March 1945. Landing on the fire-swept beaches twenty-two minutes
after H-Hour, Colonel Liversedge gallantly led his men in the advance inland before executing a difficult turning
maneuver to the south preparatory to launching the assault on Mount Suribachi. Under his inspiring leadership, his
Regiment effected a partial seizure of a formidable Japanese position consisting of caves, pillboxes and blockhouses,
until it was halted by intense enemy resistance which caused severe casualties. Braving the heavy hostile fire, he
traversed the front lines to reorganize his troops and, by his determination and aggressiveness, enabled his men to
overrun the Japanese position by nightfall. By his fighting spirit and intrepid leadership, Colonel Liversedge contributed
materially to the capture of Mount Suribachi, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 44533 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: 9/21/1894 at Volcano, California
Home Town: Pine Grove, California
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)
MAGHAKIAN, VICTOR
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Victor Maghakian, Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
Platoon Sergeant while a member of the Second Marine Raider Battalion during action against the Japanese-held island
of Makin on 17 - 18 August, 1942. Leading his platoon with great skill and determination, Platoon Sergeant Maghakian
charged the beachhead with the landing force and was the first casualty in this operation. After receiving first aid, he
returned to the front and remained there, courageously leading his men until directed by the Medical Officer to return to
the rear. His gallant devotion to duty and complete disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Home Town: Big Creek, California
*MCAULIFFE, JOHN T.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company G, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: April 2 - 3, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John T. McAuliffe, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), extraordinary heroism while
serving with a platoon of Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 2 and 3 April 1945. Observing four Japanese emplaced in a cave as he
patrolled the area near his platoon's position on the night of 2 April, Corporal McAuliffe instantly attacked the enemy
and single-handedly wiped out all four before they were able to open fire. Mortally wounded the following morning
while acting in the point of his company's advance, he stoutly refused to leave his post and succeeded in maintaining a
steady stream of accurate fire until he had killed four more of the Japanese and had driven off several others in the act of
setting an ambush for his company. By his fearless aggressiveness, indomitable fighting spirit and unfaltering devotion
to duty in the face of savage opposition, Corporal McAuliffe saved the lives of many comrades and his valiant conduct
throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: New York, New York
Page 28
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*MCCAFFERY, JOSEPH P.
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 1, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Joseph P. McCaffery, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while in command of the Second Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces during the landing
attack of the Third Marine Division (Reinforced), in the Cape Torokina Area, Bougainville Island, British Solomon
Islands, on November 1, 1943. When the initial assault wave under his command landed out of position and became
momentarily confused, Lieutenant Colonel McCaffery, realizing the danger of immobilization by enemy fire,
immediately organized his command, fearlessly exposing himself to heavy fire from mortars and automatic weapons
while proceeding from unit to unit in order to direct the disposition of his troops for maximum effectiveness. Initiating a
daring attack, Lieutenant Colonel McCaffery personally led his men against Japanese positions until he was mortally
wounded. His valiant and inspiring leadership was largely responsible for the success of the attack and his exemplary
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his
life for his country.
Serial 6727 (February 16, 1944)
Born: at Chester, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Chester, Pennsylvania
*MEARS, DWAYNE E.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 19, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Dwayne E. Mears, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of an Assault Company attached to the First Battalion, Twenty- Eighth Marines, Fifth Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima, in the Volcano Islands, on 19 February
1945. Confronted by the enemy's solid, coordinated system of defenses shortly after hitting the beach in the initial
landing wave, Captain Mears boldly led his units forward despite intense small-arms fire from the front and left flank to
crash through an area covered by concentrated mortar and artillery fire for an early gain of 300 yards. Disregarding
serious wounds received during the subsequent bombardment from a series of almost impregnable blockhouses which
halted his advance at this point, he rallied his two assault platoons and, armed only with a pistol, fearlessly charged the
enemy fortifications, destroying the four stubborn installations with indomitable aggressiveness. In the forefront of the
action at all times, he fought on without respite, driving his broadening wedge through the fanatic Japanese resistance for
more than 700 yards to cut sharply across the narrow neck of the island and secure a line from the east to the west coast
within ninety minutes of landing. Struck by enemy fire for the second time during the last phase of the break-through to
the west beach, he resolutely refused medical aid or evacuation, directing the movements of his men by arm and hand
signals when his mortal wounds deprived him of speech and, otherwise persisting in his valiant efforts until, with the
strong enemy garrison on Mount Suribachi isolated and his company's objective won, he was ordered to the rear by his
battalion commander. Although he succumbed on the following day, Captain Mears, by his dauntless valor, relentless
fighting spirit and decisive tactics in the face of savage opposition, had contributed materially to the success of his
division's operations against this important outpost of the Japanese Empire and his inspiring leadership throughout the
bitter hostilities upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
CinC Pac: Serial 34220 (August 14, 1945)
Born: at Ava, Missouri
Home Town: Bakersfield, California
MENTCH, CHARLES E.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company M, 3d Marine Raider Battalion, 2d Marine Raider Regiment (Provisional), V Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: November 29, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Charles E. Mentch, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while serving with Company M, Third Raider Battalion, Second Marine Raider Regiment (Provisional), in action against
Page 29
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
enemy Japanese forces on Bougainville Island in the Solomons Group, 29 November 1943. After an amphibious landing
had been effected behind Japanese lines in the Empress August Bay Area, Sergeant Mentch was one of a group
executing a strategic withdrawal from a section dominated by deeply entrenched Japanese machine-gun positions which
were delivering a tremendous volume of concentrated fire. Informed that five wounded comrades lay helpless under the
enemy's slashing barrage, Sergeant Mentch instantly turned back and, dashing into the zone of heaviest fire on the flank
of the hostile position, quickly set up a light machine gun and raked the enemy lines with his enfilade fire. When the
Japanese guns continued to pour forth their devastating fire, he grasped his weapon and ran forward to within twenty
yards of the enemy line where he directed a shattering barrage against the hostile emplacements and succeeded in
silencing the Japanese guns long enough to permit safe evacuation of the wounded Marines. His courageous initiative
and bold tactics in the face of enemy fire, and his unselfish concern for the safety of others in a critical emergency,
reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Mentch and upon the United States Naval Service.
ComSoPac: Serial 0049 (January 15, 1947)
Born: at Absarokee, Montana
Home Town: Spirit Lake, Idaho
MIELKE, JOHN W.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 12 - 13, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John W. Mielke, Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving
with the First Marine Raider Battalion during an engagement with enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on the night of September 12 to 13, 1942. While on duty with a rifle unit which was overrun by the Japanese,
Private Mielke steadfastly remained by his machine gun, and, although continually subjected to hostile fire from three
directions, he personally accounted for at least six of the enemy and prevented the capture of his weapon. By his intrepid
fighting spirit and outstanding devotion to duty he was largely responsible for stopping the advance of the enemy and for
the later withdrawal of his machine gun without loss to the battalion reserve line. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Ferndale, Michigan
Home Town: Ferndale, Michigan
*MILLER, JACK
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company A, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: December 3, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Jack Miller, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism while attached to the Second Marine Raider Battalion in combat
against enemy Japanese forces at Mambula, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on December 3,1
942. As Commanding Officer of a platoon of Company A which had the point, First
Lieutenant Miller daringly led a flank attack on a strong enemy combat patrol engaged by his
battalion at the summit of the hill. Realizing the advance of his platoon was being held up by
hostile machine-gun fire, he dauntlessly led the assault on the Japanese gun position,
sustaining wounds from which he died the following day. His great courage, outstanding leadership, and fearless
devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his
life in the defense of his country.
Serial 0478 (May 3, 1943)
Born: at Dallas, Texas
Home Town: Dallas, Texas
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*MOORE, RALPH E., JR.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
3d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 27 & 29, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Ralph E. Moore, Jr., Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while serving with the Third Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 27 and 29 July 1944. When the advance of his platoon was held up
by heavy enemy fire on 27 July, Corporal Moore unhesitatingly made his way forward in the face of intense hostile
opposition and, skillfully and accurately employing hand grenades, personally accounted for the destruction of three
enemy pillboxes. Again on 29 July, he valiantly crawled forward under fierce machine-gun and mortar fire to a bombproof shelter containing about thirty Japanese and succeeded in silencing the hostile strongpoint with his grenades before
he was mortally wounded. By his brilliant initiative and indomitable fighting spirit under extremely perilous conditions,
Corporal Moore enabled his platoon to advance without losses, and his self-sacrificing devotion to duty reflects the
highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004271 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Home Town: Hattiesburg, Mississippi
MURPHY, JOHN J., JR.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Marines (Rein.), 2d Marine Division
Date of Action: September 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John J. Murphy, Jr., Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while a member of the Second Marines (Reinforced), Second Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese
forces off the coast of Tulagi, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 9, 1942. With his ship illuminated by the
enemy and hostile gunfire causing violent explosion of shells inside the magazine directly beneath his battle station,
Private First Class Murphy voluntarily remained on board, despite devastating Japanese shellfire, to assist in repairing
damage to the engine room until that compartment also became untenable. Although wounded by a shell fragment
shortly afterward, he gallantly disregarded his own condition to help evacuate other injured shipmates to a dressing
station ashore, following the beaching of the vessel. His conspicuous courage in a situation of grave peril was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (1943), Serial 057 (SofN Signed April 23, 1943)
*OLBERT, RICHARD N.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Richard N. Olbert, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service above and beyond the call of duty as a member of a volunteer boat crew attached to
the Second Marine Raider Battalion during action against the Japanese-held island of Makin, 17 - 18 August, 1942. Fully
aware of the hazards of an imminent enemy air attack, and with complete disregard for his own life, Private First Class
Olbert, with four others, volunteered to take a boat to a point just outside a reef and shoot a line ashore to assist in
evacuating those men remaining on the beach. Caught on the sea, he was defeated in his valiant efforts by the violent
strafing of his boat by withering enemy machine-gun fire. His great personal valor and loyal spirit of self-sacrifice were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of
his country.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Hesperus, Colorado
Home Town: Durango, Colorado
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*ORIBILETTI, BRUNO
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 22, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Bruno Oribiletti, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a
member of a Rocket Launcher Team serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, First Battalion, Fourth Marines
(Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 22
July 1944. Upon hearing enemy tanks rumbling down the road toward his company's position, Private First Class
Oribiletti, with his rocket launcher loader, immediately knelt in the ditch alongside the road and, as the hostile infantry
got off the tanks and laid down a withering protecting fire for the vehicles, calmly waited until the first tank was within
fifteen yards of his position before he opened fire and stopped it. After directing another accurate round which struck the
second tank and forced one of the occupants out, he was preparing to fire again when a hit by the tank's cannon killed
him instantly. Private First Class Oribiletti's splendid initiative, inspiring valor and tenacious devotion to duty under
extremely perilous conditions contributed materially to the successful repulsion of the enemy attack and were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004071 (December 26, 1944)
Born: at Nenosha, Wisconsin
Home Town: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
PEATROSS, OSCAR F.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Oscar F. Peatross, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous devotion to duty as a member of the Second Marine Raider Battalion against enemy Japanese armed forces
on Makin Island, August 17, 1942. When extremely rough seas forced his separation from the rest of the raiding party,
Captain Peatross boldly landed his men behind the enemy lines and attacked a superior enemy force. Continuing to
harass the enemy's rear, thereby creating confusion in their ranks, Captain Peatross's daring tactics caused one of the
enemy's aerial bombing formations to bomb its own troops. In this forceful and courageous engagement he and his group
killed or wounded fifteen Japanese. His resourcefulness, leadership and personal valor were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
Born: at Raleigh, North Carolina
Home Town: Raleigh, North Carolina
PETTUS, FRANCES C.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Frances C. Pettus, Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion in combat against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, in September 1942. During the attack on Tasimboko on September 8, Platoon Sergeant Pettus, attached to the
battalion intelligence section, led a small patrol to reconnoiter the gap existing between two companies in the front line.
Although constantly exposed to hostile machine gun and rifle fire, he completed his mission, bringing back invaluable
information to his commander. Again on the night of September 13 - 14, during the enemy attack on the airport at
Guadalcanal, Platoon Sergeant Pettus, at great risk of his life, kept his commander accurately informed of the situation
on the battalion's exposed left flank. In addition, he carried ammunition to the foremost gun positions and assisted in the
evacuation of the wounded. His fortitude, courage, and indomitable fighting spirit throughout these engagements were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Savannah, Georgia
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
PLUMLEY, MERWYN C.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Merwyn C. Plumley, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service as Commanding Officer of Company A, Second Marine Raider Battalion, during action against the
Japanese-held island of Makin, 17 - 18 August, 1942. With his company providing the advance guard, Captain Plumley
led the assault on enemy forces, retaining the initiative in spite of heavy casualties sustained by his company, and
successfully turning back two severe charges by the enemy which threatened the flank. When two leaders of his first
platoon were wounded in quick succession, he personally assumed the leadership of this platoon, which held a key
position, until another leader became available. The inspiring example of his leadership and his outstanding devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Grand Ledge, Michigan
Home Town: Nashville, Michigan
POWERS, ROBERT A.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company K, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: May 20, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert A. Powers, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader of Company K, Third Battalion,
Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa,
Ryukyu Islands, on 20 May 1945. After all senior non-commissioned officers had become
casualties, Corporal Powers promptly assumed the duties of platoon sergeant of two
combined platoons and, when a fierce enemy counterattack was launched against the
company's line on King Ridge during the night, he continually exposed himself to intense
hostile fire to encourage his men and direct the firing of his automatic weapons. When enemy troops infiltrated through
the lines while the attack was at its peak, mingling with our forces and causing many casualties with grenades and
bayonets, Corporal Powers courageously leaped from his foxhole and moved up and down the line, annihilating the
enemy soldiers and reorganizing his own men. Through his valiant efforts, he contributed materially to repelling the
hostile counterattack with large losses to the enemy. His gallant fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 98301
Born: 6/28/1924 at St. Paul, Minnesota
Home Town: White Bear Lake, Minnesota
QUIRK, BRAIN J.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
3d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 9, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Brain J. Quirk, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the Third Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area
on November 9, 1943. While his platoon was engaged in the defense of a vital road block near Empress Augusta Bay,
Bougainville Island, Corporal Quirk commanded a squad attacking a series of machine-gun nests which the enemy had
established within thirty yards of the Marine block. Although wounded four times in the terrific exchange of fire, he not
only refused evacuation but also led his men in a bold assault against one of the key nests, courageously destroying the
enemy and enabling his platoon to advance on the others in the area. His grim determination and aggressive fighting
spirit, maintained with utter disregard of personal safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 0055 (SofN Signed July 29, 1944)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
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*RIEGEL, JAMES E.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 1, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to James E. Riegel, Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the Second Marine Raider Battalion during a landing attack on Bougainville Island, British Solomon
Islands, on November 1, 1943. When his platoon became immobilized by heavy machine-gun fire from an enemy gun
emplacement during the assault in the Cape Torokina area, Private Riegel, acting as an automatic rifleman, passed his
weapon to a comrade and, obtaining several hand grenades from the other men, unhesitatingly advanced toward the
hostile emplacement. Making a hazardous frontal attack, he hurled grenades into the enemy position and, although
fatally wounded, succeeded in destroying it. Private Riegel's courageous initiative and heroic devotion to duty enabled
his platoon to continue its advance against the enemy and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Serial 0056 (March 1, 1944)
Born: at Troy, Ohio
Home Town: Santa Rita, New Mexico
*RINGGOLD, CHARLES F.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 24, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Charles F. Ringgold, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Guam in the Marianas, on 24 July 1944. Wounded while
countering the enemy's first attempt to penetrate our lines that night, Private First Class Ringgold proceeded to the rear
where he received medical treatment, then returned voluntarily to the flank position occupied by his machine-gun squad.
Steadfastly remaining at his post throughout the night, he repeatedly fought off the persistent efforts of the Japanese
troops to infiltrate his position and succeeded in killing two of the enemy before succumbing to his wounds. By his
tireless vigilance, indomitable fighting spirit and determined fortitude, Private First Class Ringgold was largely
responsible for the successful defense of his position, and his great personal valor and unwavering devotion to duty in the
face of ruthless, unceasing opposition reflect he highest credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004195 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at West Columbia, Texas
Home Town: West Columbia, Texas
*ROBERTON, DONALD R. A.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Donald R. A. Roberton, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service above and beyond the call of duty s a member of a volunteer boat crew attached to the
Second Marine Raider Battalion, during action against the Japanese-held island of Makin, 17 - 18 August, 1942. Fully
aware of the hazards of an imminent enemy air attack, and with complete disregard for his own life, Private Roberton,
with four others, volunteered to take a boat to a point just outside a reef and shoot a line ashore to assist in evacuating
those men remaining on the beach. Caught on the sea, he was defeated in his valiant efforts by the violent strafing of his
boat by withering enemy machine-gun fire. His great personal valor and loyal spirit of self-sacrifice were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Patterson, Louisiana
Home Town: Franklin, Louisiana
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*ROBERTS, FRANCIS E.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 27, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Francis E. Roberts, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade,
during action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas Islands, on 27 July 1944. When his platoon was
subjected to heavy enemy rifle and machine-gun fire from across an open field while attempting to extend the flanks
along a road, Private First Class Roberts and five companions immediately utilized an abandoned and ruined concrete
building as cover and, while moving into it, were again fired upon from two concealed hostile pillboxes in the rear.
Locating one of the weapons, he fearlessly charged the emplacement alone and succeeded in silencing the hostile fire by
the effective use of his rifle. Voluntarily taking station at a dangerously prominent vantage point in an effort to draw
their fire, he shouted aggravating remarks to the enemy and, discovering their position, delivered devastating counterfire
against the emplacement. Seeking a more favorable firing position outside the house when the machine gun across the
field again opened fire, he remained behind to cover the withdrawal of the other five men then, on his own initiative,
boldly pressed forward and destroyed the remaining pillbox before he was fatally struck down by enemy sniper fire. An
intrepid and courageous fighter in the face of tremendous odds, Private First Class Roberts contributed immeasurably to
the success of our forces in recapturing this vital hostile stronghold and his valiant devotion to duty throughout reflects
the highest credit upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 00445 (January 22, 1945)
Born: at Spokane, Washington
Home Town: Kelso, Washington
ROGERS, NEIL L.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, III Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Neil L. Rogers, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving in a Platoon of the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third
Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Guam in the Marianas Group, on 21
July 1944. Carrying a flame thrower, Private First Class Rogers sprayed an enemy pillbox with fuel which failed to
ignite and, although wounded, braved hostile fire to crawl to the pillbox and ignite the fuel-soaked position with
matches. By his heroic action, he destroyed the enemy pillbox, killed five of the Japanese and prevented them from
inflicting numerous casualties on the men of his platoon. His great personal valor and devotion to duty reflect the highest
credit upon Private First Class Rogers and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 0296-295
Born: at Union City, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Warren, Ohio
ROGERS, RAYMOND D.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company F, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 21, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Raymond D. Rogers, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving as Leader of a Fire Team of Company F, Twenty-Eighth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 21 February 1945. When extremely heavy grenade and
small arms fire from an enemy cave position held up the advance of his company, Private First Class Rogers voluntarily
rushed across a wide open area to the cave entrance despite fierce resistance from the hostile forces inside the position.
Covering his advance with hand grenades, he charged into the cave and, with his pistol, destroyed the three Japanese
occupants who had halted the advance. By his initiative, he enabled his company to continue its advance without
casualties and contributed materially to the prompt destruction of the remaining hostile troops in the area. His gallant
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fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 43157
Born: at Omer, Michigan
Home Town: Plymouth, Michigan
ROOSEVELT, JAMES
Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Executive Officer, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to James Roosevelt, Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as second in command of the Second Marine
Raider Battalion against enemy Japanese armed forces on Makin island. Risking his own life
over and beyond the ordinary call of duty, Major Roosevelt continually exposed himself to intense machine-gun and
sniper fire to ensure effective control of operations from the command post. As a result of his successful maintenance of
communications with his supporting vessels, two enemy surface ships, whose presence was reported, were destroyed by
gun fire. Later during evacuation, he displayed exemplary courage in personally rescuing three men from drowning in
the heavy surf. His gallant conduct and his inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
Born: 12/23/1907 at New York, New York
Home Town: Beverly Hills, California
*RUIZ, EDWARD J.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: May 20 & 21, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Edward J. Ruiz, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as
Forward Observer for the 81-mm. mortar platoon of Headquarters Company, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth
Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 20 and 21 May 1945.
Sensing the imminence of an enemy counterattack when hostile artillery and knee-mortar fire from the reverse slope of a
hill blasted with increasing tempo on the battalion's lines in defiladed defensive positions, Corporal Ruiz seized the field
telephone connected to the gun battery and voluntarily crawled from his foxhole twenty-five yards forward to the crest of
the hill. Guided by the light of flares, he called down mortar fire on hostile troops which could be spotted moving toward
his unit's position. Mortally wounded by a Japanese mortar shell, he stoically disregarded his own pain and the added
peril from mortar fire and hand grenades falling on all sides and, refusing evacuation, continued to direct the fire of his
gun battery. Consenting to evacuation only after the counterattack had been completely repulsed with many of the
Japanese having reached positions ten yards away before being killed, Corporal Ruiz, by his fortitude, valiant fighting
spirit and courageous determination, had prevented the enemy from taking a heavy toll of casualties among his
comrades. His unwavering devotion to duty throughout this extremely hazardous action reflects the highest credit upon
Corporal Ruiz and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 02022 (January 10, 1946)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Woburn, Massachusetts
SABINI, JOHN A.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company F, 2d Marine Raider Battalion, 2d Marine Raider Regiment (Provisional), V Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: November 9, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John A. Sabini, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while attached to Company F, Second Raider Battalion, Second Marine Raider Regiment (Provisional), First Marine
Amphibious corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces along the Numa Numa-Piva Trail, Bougainville,
Solomon Islands, on 9 November 1943. When his platoon was pinned down by enemy fire from well-concealed
emplacements, First Lieutenant Sabini rose from cover and ran back and forth in the rear of his position, shouting at the
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Japanese in an attempt to draw their fire and discover their location. When the enemy opened fire, wounding him but still
not revealing their position, he again rose to his feet and continued to shout until the enemy began laying down heavy
fire which wounded him again but also revealed their location. By his courageous act, First Lieutenant Sabini enabled his
platoon to attack and drive out a strong force of Japanese. His intrepid leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ComSoPac: Serial 0056 (February 6, 1947)
Born: at Fort Sill, Oklahoma
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
*SALZMAN, EDWARD E.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Edward E. Salzman, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 21 July 1944. Observing an adjoining unit in an extremely untenable
position, Sergeant Salzman unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own personal safety exposed himself to
intense, persistent hostile fire in an effort to locate the Japanese emplacements and direct the fire of his own platoon
against them for the purposes of assisting the other unit. Although mortally wounded while carrying out this hazardous
mission, he courageously dragged himself back to his squad and, skillfully placing the men in advantageous positions,
continued to direct the fire accurately and effectively until he succumbed to his wounds. Sergeant Salzman's brilliant
initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004196 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at Santa Barbara, California
Home Town: Lompoc, California
SCHNEIDER, ROBERT G.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert G. Schneider, Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion while defending the airport against enemy Japanese forces on
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. In the face of continual enemy machine gun and
mortar fire, Private Schneider, on his own initiative, took charge of and assisted in carrying ammunition to our machine
guns and mortars along Lunga Ridge, thereby enabling these guns to keep in action throughout the early morning hours
during the height of the attack. His indomitable fighting spirit and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Newark, New Jersey
Home Town: Union, New Jersey
SCHRIER, HAROLD GEORGE
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company E, 2d Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 23, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Harold George Schrier, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
as Executive Officer of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 23 February 1945. On the morning of 23 February when his
combat team had advanced to the base of Mount Suribachi after four days of severe fighting, First Lieutenant Schrier
volunteered to lead a forty-man patrol up the steep slopes of the mountain. Quickly organizing his patrol and placing
himself at its head, he began the torturous climb up the side of the volcano, followed by his patrol in single file.
Employing the only known approach, an old Japanese trail, he swiftly pushed on until, covered by all the supporting
weapons of his battalion, he gained the top of the mountain despite hostile small-arms and artillery fire. Forced to
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WORLD WAR II
engaged the remaining enemy in a sharp fire fight, he overcame them without loss in his patrol and occupied the rim of
the volcano. Although still under enemy sniper fire, First Lieutenant Schrier, assisted by his Platoon Sergeant, raised the
National Colors over Mount Suribachi, planting the flagstaff firmly on the highest knoll overlooking the crater, the first
American flag to fly over any land in the inner defenses of the Japanese Empire. His inspiring leadership, courage and
determination in the face of overwhelming odds upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 42940
Born: 10/17/1916 at Corder, Missouri
Home Town: Lexington, Missouri
SCHWERIN, WILLIAM E.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 10 - December 4, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to William E. Schwerin, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while attached to the Second Marine Raider Battalion during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, between November 10 and December 4, 1942. On November 14, leading a patrol from his company
against an enemy base in a narrow defile, Captain Schwerin, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, daringly
and skillfully seized the base, destroyed the enemy, and captured a quantity of arms, ammunition, and military
documents without loss of a man in his patrol. Again on November 30, he led his company against a hostile stronghold
on the upper Lunga River and, although the Japanese were superior in number, executed a swift surprise attack, catching
the enemy unprepared and killing ninety Japanese and capturing a large supply of arms and ammunition. His superb
leadership and aggressive fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 0478 (SofN Signed July 17, 1943)
Born: at Portland, Oregon
Home Town: Los Angeles, California
SEBOCK, JOSEPH
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 - 18, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Joseph Sebock, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous devotion to duty while a member of the Second Marine Raider Battalion during action against the enemy
Japanese-held island of Makin on 17 - 18 August, 1942. During a very critical period of the fight, Private First Class
Sebock, in company with a comrade, fighting valiantly and with great determination, defeated successive and violent
counter measures of enemy Japanese and succeeded in holding the left flank of the assault echelon. His courageous and
determined action, performed with complete disregard for his own personal safety, was a vital factor in the success of the
raiding force and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 21, 1942
Born: at Butler, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Harvey, Illinois
*SELBY, ROBERT B.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 27, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert B. Selby, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in
action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas Islands, on 27 July 1944. Mortally wounded by fire from a
concealed enemy machine gun while proceeding down a trail through extremely hazardous and densely wooded terrain,
Private First Class Selby struggled to his feet and, with superb courage, deliberately exposed himself to the enemy so
that other members of his squad could locate the hostile weapon, deploy and take cover. By his great personal valor, his
daring aggressiveness and decisive action in voluntarily sacrificing his life for others, Private First Class Selby enabled
his comrades to locate and demolish the enemy position, and his valiant devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
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CinC Pac: Serial 004068 (January 1, 1945)
Born: at Sturges, Michigan
Home Town: Burr Oak, Michigan
*SERGO, MIKE E.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Mike E. Sergo, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while with the First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against
enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July 1944. With several members of his squad seriously
wounded during the initial landing on the heavily-fortified beach, Private First Class Sergo promptly assumed command
of a group of men and, voluntarily exposing himself to intense hostile small arms, machine-gun and mortar fire, cleared
the area of the enemy by skillful use of his rifle and gallantly led his squad to an inland position. Ordered to move his
men forward across an open field, he was immediately attacked by the Japanese but, instead of seeking cover, boldly
advanced toward the enemy and opened fire, killing some, silencing their machine gun and forcing the others to
withdraw, thereby enabling his command to advance with no further casualties. By his brilliant leadership, his daring
initiative and dauntless courage in the face of extreme peril, Private First Class Sergo contributed essentially to the
success of our forces in taking the initial beachhead and to our ultimate occupation of this strategic island. His valiant
devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CinC Pac: Serial 004073 (January 1, 1945)
Born: at Lohrville, Wisconsin
Home Town: Lohrville, Wisconsin
SHAHEEN, ALBERT J.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, III Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: July 21 - 26, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Albert J. Shaheen, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while serving as a Squad Leader in a Platoon of Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First
Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of
Guam in the Marianas Group, from 21 to 26 July 1944. Leading the point of his platoon along the beach under heavy
mortar and rifle fire, Sergeant Shaheen braved enemy fire to crawl within hand grenade range of a hostile emplacement
and, rushing the enemy, fired his automatic rifle and silenced the position, thereby enabling his platoon to continue the
advance. Later in the operation when a Japanese officer attacked him from behind and inflicted two severe saber wounds
on his shoulder, he killed the officer with his rifle and, despite his wounds, continued to lead his squad in its attack,
personally annihilating seven Japanese before submitting to evacuation. His great personal valor and devotion to duty
reflect the highest credit on Sergeant Shaheen and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 0296-295
Born: at Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Home Town: Pawtucket, Rhode Island
SHAPLEY, ALAN
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding Officer, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 21 - August 10, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Alan Shapley, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of the Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 July to 10 August 1944. Courageously leading his regiment in an
assault landing against strong enemy beach defenses, Lieutenant Colonel Shapley rapidly seized the assigned beachhead
and defended the area against fanatical hostile counterattacks. Upon relief of the force beachhead line, he valiantly led
his troops in a determined assault up the left half of the Orote Peninsula and, despite the difficult terrain and strong
enemy defenses, seized an important airfield and annihilated the Japanese in that area. Vigorously patrolling in the
southern half of the island to eliminate hostile elements there, he then directed his men in the final attack on the northern
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half of the island. His leadership, caring combat tactics and great personal valor reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant
Colonel Shapley and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 349 (SofN Signed November 14, 1947)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Carmel, California
SHIVELY, ALLEN E.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company K, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, III Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Allen E. Shively, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving
with Company K, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious
Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the island of Guam in the Marianas Group, 21 July 1944.
Although seriously wounded during an all night fire fight, Sergeant Shively took over and manned a machine gun for
five hours after two of his men were killed in their foxholes. Despite the seriousness of his wounds, he remained at his
gun and materially aided in repulsing many strong hostile attacks. Attacked by a Japanese officer with drawn saber, he
wrestled the saber from the man in a desperate hand-to-hand struggle and killed the enemy officer with the weapon. His
great personal valor and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Shively and the United States Naval
Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 0296-295
Born: at Henry County, Indiana
Home Town: New Castle, Indiana
SLUSSER, JOHN HARVEY
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps
Company F, 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 30, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John Harvey Slusser, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon
Commander of Company F, Second Marine Raider Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on 30 November 1942. Leading his platoon into an enemy bivouac on the upper Lunga River, Captain
Slusser, then Marine Gunner, initiated a daring attack on the objective which caught a force of some ninety Japanese
completely by surprise. Although vastly outnumbered, he bravely charged into the bivouac at the head of his unit with
his automatic weapon blazing and, by his forceful and determined leadership, served to inspire his men to heroic
endeavor in killing seventy-five of the enemy and in driving the remainder into the bush, achieving a complete victory
over the hostile force without the loss of a Marine. His superb courage, outstanding initiative and valiant fighting spirit in
the face of overwhelming odds reflect the highest credit upon Captain Slusser and enhance the finest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 526 (July 18, 1953)
Born: at Blacksburg, Virginia
Home Town: Blacksburg, Virginia
*SMITH, EDWARD L., JR.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Edward L. Smith, Jr., Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River,
Private Smith and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily prepared
positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked
the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-t-hand
combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Private Smith refused to be dislodged from his position and, after
exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding
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devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Private Smith gallantly
gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Rome, New York
Home Town: Rome, New York
*SMITH, ROGER E.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade,
Date of Action: July 21, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Roger E. Smith, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism as Mortar Platoon Leader in Company B, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine
Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Guam in the Marianas Islands on 21 July 1944.
Moving his mortar platoon up from the beach in the rear of advancing riflemen, First Lieutenant Smith observed a
wounded rifleman lying close to a hostile pillbox and, halting his men, fearlessly advanced to the aid of the Marine under
a continuous barrage from the Japanese emplacement. Engaging the enemy with rifle fire and hand grenades, he held his
position despite the fierce opposition and attempted to neutralize the pillbox with a flame-thrower but, failing in this,
continued to move up on the enemy while firing his rifle and, although mortally wounded during the bitter hostilities,
succeeded in silencing the hostile gun-battery. By his determined initiative, valiant fighting spirit and resolute fortitude
in the face of terrific odds, First Lieutenant Smith contributed materially to the ultimate success of our forces in
recapturing this vital stronghold, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 004205 (January 11, 1945)
Born: at Overall, Tennessee
Home Town: Overall, Tennessee
SPOTTS, MELVIN JOHN
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company K, 3d Battalion, 2d Marines, 2d Marine Division
Date of Action: August 4, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Melvin John Spotts, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while attached to Company K, Third Battalion, Second Marines, Second Marine Division, during operations against
enemy Japanese forces on Tinian, Marianas Islands, 4 August 1944. Leading a patrol along enemy-held cliffs to clear out
caves and outposts of hostile resistance, Second Lieutenant Spotts safely extricated his men when fired upon by the
Japanese. Although partially blinded by a land mine which was thrown from one of the caves and exploded in the midst
of the patrol, he succeeded in leading his men to a place of safety, personally directing the evacuation of two members
who had sustained serious wounds. His professional skill, courage and devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 5464
Born: at Sterling, Illinois
Home Town: Angola, Indiana
STEA, ANTHONY J.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Battalion, 4th Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, III Amphibious Force
Date of Action: July 28, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Anthony J. Stea, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving as a Member of a Machine Gun Squad of the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced),
First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of
Guam in the Marianas Group, 28 July 1944. Seriously wounded in the leg when the rest of his machine gun squad was
wiped out by a direct hit from enemy artillery, Private First Class Stea remained at his post to load and fire his weapon.
Sustaining an additional serious wound a short time later, he continued raking the Japanese with effective fire until he
collapsed from loss of blood. By inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy at a critical period, he contributed materially to
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
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the defeat of the Japanese force in this action, and his great personal valor and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit
upon Private First Class Stea and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 0296-295 (SofN Signed January 28, 1948)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: New York, New York
*STEINAKER, DONALD B.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Donald B. Steinaker, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River,
Private First Class Steinaker and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their
hastily prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke,
fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately
in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Private First Class Steinaker refused to be dislodged
from his position and, after exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting
spirit and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Private First Class Steinaker gallantly gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Syracuse, New York
Home Town: Syracuse, New York
STEVENSON, WILLIAM D.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to William D. Stevenson, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while serving as Battalion Communications Officer, First Marine Raider Battalion, during the defense of the airport on
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, against enemy Japanese forces on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. Placed in
command of a patrol to reconnoiter the left flank of the battalion reserve line and to determine the location of the hostile
troops enveloping that flank, Captain Stevenson, in spite of severe enemy rifle and machine gun fire, completed this
mission successfully. Then, directed to return to the battalion command post, he took over the battalion switchboard and,
in the face of ever-present danger, operated it effectively and skillfully. With all other personnel forced to another
position in the rear, and with his post entirely surrounded by infiltrating Japanese, Captain Stevenson gallantly remained,
and alone, maintained communication with the division command post and with supporting artillery, until the enemy in
the rear cut the wires. His unswerving devotion to duty and great personal valor were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Franklin, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Titusville, Pennsylvania
SULLIVAN, RICHARD E.
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Richard E. Sullivan, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while a member of Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion, during action against enemy Japanese forces on
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the evening of October 8, 1942. When the positions of the Marines along the
Matanikau River were threatened by a heavy enemy assault, Second Lieutenant Sullivan's platoon was fiercely engaged
by the spearhead of the attack. Continuously subjected to hostile fire while fighting off troops in desperate hand-to-hand
combat, Second Lieutenant Sullivan, although wounded three times during the action, courageously maintained his
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position throughout the night, thereby exacting a tremendous toll of enemy dead. His gallant leadership and inspiring
devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (1942), Serial 00192 (SofN Signed April 2, 1943)
Born: at Rock Hill, South Carolina
Home Town: Charlotte, North Carolina
SWEENEY, JOHN B.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John B. Sweeney, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of a Rifle Company, First Marine Raider Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. Stationed along Lunga Ridge squarely in the
path of the hostile advance on Henderson Field, Captain Sweeney skillfully directed the maneuvers of his company
against overwhelming numbers of the enemy who fiercely and relentlessly attacked his precarious position. With
communication practically cut off and the Japanese infiltrating to the rear of his line, Captain Sweeney, by his great
personal valor and unswerving devotion to duty, so inspired and encouraged his desperately fighting men that they
remained doggedly at their post, despite the extremely heavy casualties. His brilliant leadership, sound judgment and
unyielding defiance of danger were important factors in the successful defense of Henderson Field during those crucial
hours and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 02162 (SofN Signed July 17, 1944)
Born: at Columbus, Ohio
Home Town: Columbus, Ohio
*TANNER, KARL
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: March 1 - 9, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Karl Tanner, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while attached to the First Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 1 to 9 March 1945. Unhesitatingly assuming command of a company
pinned down by shattering hostile machine-gun, mortar and sniper fire emanating from a series of mutually supporting
caves and pillboxes, First Lieutenant Tanner fearlessly exposed himself to the withering barrage to continue the attack.
Constantly inspiring his men to greater effort despite fierce resistance, he boldly led them forward and, waging furious
battle against the fanatic Japanese, maintained his aggressive, determined tactics to drive the enemy 200 yards inland.
Fatally struck down by the enemy while conducting a subsequent perilous action on 9 March, First Lieutenant Tanner, by
his brilliant and forceful leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and dauntless perseverance in the face of tremendous
odds, had contributed essentially to the success of our sustained drive against this vital hostile stronghold and his selfsacrificing devotion to duty throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 32434 (July 12, 1945)
Born: at Mexico City, Mexico
Home Town: Mascot, Tennessee
*THOMAS, DENNIS F.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Dennis F. Thomas, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River,
Private First Class Thomas and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their
hastily prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke,
fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately
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WORLD WAR II
in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Private First Class Thomas refused to be dislodged
from his position and after a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and
unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Private First
Class Thomas gallantly gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Barnstable, Massachusetts
Home Town: Barnstable, Massachusetts
*THOMPSON, WOODROW R.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Woodrow R. Thompson, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while
serving with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River,
Sergeant Thompson and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily
prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke,
fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately
in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Sergeant Thompson refused to be dislodged from his
position and after a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and
unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Sergeant
Thompson gallantly gave his life for his country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Belva, West Virginia
Home Town: Bellepoint, West Virginia
*THOSTENSON, THORBORN M.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company C, 1st Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 19, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Thorborn M. Thostenson, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a
Squad Leader, serving with Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. With his squad pinned down by heavy
rifle and machine-gun fire emanating from a hostile pillbox manned by eleven Japanese, Sergeant Thostenson boldly
advanced alone against the enemy position, throwing hand grenades and proceeding through devastating barrages to the
entrance of the emplacement. Placing a demolition charge inside the fortification, he succeeded in destroying the pillbox
and in killing all the Japanese occupants, thereby enabling his unit to resume its advance cross the island. By his daring
initiative, fearless leadership and gallant devotion to duty in the face of certain peril, Sergeant Thostenson contributed
materially to the success of our forces in the bitter fighting on Iwo, and his indomitable fighting spirit and heroic conduct
throughout were inspiring to those with whom he served, and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 35426 (November 8, 1945)
Born: at Hanley Falls, Minnesota
Home Town: Hanley Falls, Minnesota
TOWNE, HARRY
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company I, 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 27, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Harry Towne, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while
serving as a Squad Leader of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, Fifth Marine Division, during
action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 27 February 1945. During an attack on the heavily
defended enemy positions guarding the southern approaches to Hill 362, Corporal Towne led his men in a successful
assault against the commanding ground studded with pillboxes and caves. Severely wounded during a furious Japanese
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counterattack, he continued to direct the fire of his squad by voice and arm signals and, constantly exposing himself to
heavy hostile fire, threw hand grenades until he was exhausted and the counterattack repelled. His unselfish courage and
zealous devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Towne and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 45501
Born: at Madison, Wisconsin
Home Town: Madision, Wisconsin
VOGEL, HUGH A.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
Weapons Company, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division
Date of Action: May 20, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Hugh A. Vogel, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as
a Reconnaissance Non-Commissioned Officer in a Platoon of Weapons Company, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 20 May 1945.
Assigned the mission of observing enemy fire in order to direct the fire of his own platoon, Corporal Vogel coolly
advanced beyond the front lines to gain better observation despite heavy hostile machine-gun and mortar fire. Coming
upon a Japanese dual-purpose 13-mm. weapon, he quickly annihilated the crew, captured the gun and turned it upon the
enemy, destroying a mortar position and killing all the members of the mortar crew. After the successful completion of
this mission, he bravely proceeded to attack two enemy-held caves during the hours of darkness and successfully
destroyed these two positions and their occupants with demolition charges. His outstanding courage, gallant initiative
and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Vogel and the United States Naval Service.
FMF Pac: Serial 85999
Born: at Tacoma, Washington
Home Town: Tacoma, Washington
WALT, LEWIS WILLIAM
(First Award)
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
3d Battalion, 5th Marines (Rein.), 1st Marine Division
Date of Action: January 10, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Lewis William Walt, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while attached to the Third Battalion, Fifth Marines (Reinforced), First Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces in the Borgen Bay Area, Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on January 10, 1944. When all six members of a
37-mm. gun crew were killed or wounded while moving the weapon up the steep slope of a ridge to provide support for
advanced assault units pinned down by heavy enemy fire, Lieutenant Colonel Walt unhesitatingly rushed forward alone
and, completely disregarding his own personal safety, began to push the gun up the hill. Inspired by his initiative and
valor, several other men came to his assistance and laboriously worked their way up the slope in the face of terrific
hostile fire until the gun was in position to enfilade the enemy lines. Courageously leading his men against five
counterattacks made by the Japanese during the night in an effort to regain control of one end of the ridge, Lieutenant
Colonel Walt enabled his forces to repulse the attacks with great losses to the enemy and, resuming the battle the next
morning, skillfully directed the battalion in the capture of the entire ridge. By his brilliant leadership and expert tactical
knowledge, Lieutenant Colonel Walt contributed materially to the success of our forces in this area and upheld the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Com7thFlt: Serial 0879 (SofN Signed September 29, 1944)
Born: at Waubaunsee, Kansas
Home Town: Fort Collins, Colorado
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (WWII)
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WALT, LEWIS WILLIAM
(Second Award)
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Executive Officer, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division
Date of Action: September 15 - 30, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Lewis William Walt, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
as Executive Officer of the Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on
Peleliu, Palau Islands, from 15 to 30 September 1944. When the Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion was
wounded and the Executive Officer killed during an engagement with the enemy in thick jungle on the evening of 15
September, Lieutenant Colonel Walt assumed command of the Battalion and, by his aggressive and tireless leadership in
the face of hostile small-arms, mortar and artillery fire, reorganized the Battalion and enabled it to repulse a heavy
Japanese counterattack during the night and push forward to its objective the following morning. On the morning of 20
September, as Regimental Executive Officer, he made his way to the northern tip of the island to direct the installation of
a gun and, although under heavy sniper and machine-gun fire, remained at the gun and supervised the firing on a cave
until this strong point was neutralized. His courage and inspiring leadership throughout were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, FMF Pac: Serial 00598
Born: at Waubaunsee, Kansas
Home Town: Fort Collins, Colorado
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)
WARNER, GORDON
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company B, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division
Date of Action: November 1 & 7, 1943
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Gordon Warner, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as
Battalion Liaison Officer and later as Commanding Officer of Company B, Third Marines, Third Marine Division,
during action against enemy Japanese forces on Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands, November 1 and 7, 1943.
Landing at Cape Torokina on the heavily defended enemy beach, Captain Warner unhesitatingly rushed ashore, planted
an American Flag on the beach and, taunting the Japanese in their own language to come out and get it, so aroused the
enemy forces that they opened fire and threw grenades at him, thus revealing their carefully camouflaged positions.
Personally accounting for several enemy dead in the ensuing action, Captain Warner then charged through the hostile
positions and, organizing a small group of Marines at the rear, led them in successful attacks on the Japanese bunkers.
During the battle at the Koromokina River on November 7, he directed his company in fierce combat with
counterattacking enemy forces and, while guiding a tank to the concealed hostile machine-gun emplacements he had
discovered by repeating his heroic challenging tactics, was suddenly fired upon at extremely close range by the only
remaining gun. As he collapsed to the ground, the tank proceeded on and crushed the enemy weapon. Captain Warner's
gallant leadership and valiant conduct were an inspiration to the men of his command and reflect great credit upon
himself and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 00317 (SofN Signed August 26, 1944)
Born: at Pasadena, California
Home Town: Long Beach, California
*WHERRY, JOHN H.
Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company G, 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Date of Action: February 27, 1945
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John H. Wherry, Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
gunnery Sergeant while serving with Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima, in the Volcano Islands, on 27 February 1945. With
casualties increasing steadily under the intensified fire from the enemy's heavy mortar, artillery and infantry weapons on
the strongly defended approaches to Hill 362, Gunnery Sergeant Wherry fearlessly advanced to the head of the assault
units and personally led them against a heavily fortified pillbox which was holding up the right flank of his company and
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WORLD WAR II
despite the withering barrage succeeding in effecting the destruction of the enemy strong point before he himself lost his
life. His indomitable fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion in the performance of duty throughout the bitter
hostilities reflect the highest credit upon Gunnery Sergeant Wherry and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
CinC Pac: Serial 32449 (July 19, 1945)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan
WIDDECKE, CHARLES F.
Captain, U.S. Marine Corps
Company C, 1st Battalion, 22d Marines (Rein.), 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, V Amphibious Corps
Date of Action: July 21 - 25, 1944
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Charles F. Widdecke, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine
Brigade, Fifth Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 to 25
July 1944. Landing in the assault on Guam, Captain Widdecke led his men to the left flank of our invading force and,
securing a position on the beach in the face of strong opposition, prepared for the attack against the fanatic enemy
holding Orote Peninsula and its strategic airfield. A fearless and brilliant leader, he inspired his company to sustain the
momentum of the subsequent attacks despite the bitterness of the action and the many casualties sustained by his
Marines. With his company's advance disrupted by heavy machine-gun, rifle, artillery and mortar barrages, on 25 July,
Captain Widdecke organized his men and, stepping out in front of all troops, led them in a bold and aggressive charge
through intense hostile fire. Throwing the full power of his unit into the fight, he smashed the resisting Japanese with
terrific impact, blasting defenses and capturing the hostile position before he himself was seriously wounded. His daring
initiative, indomitable spirit and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk were important factors in the success
of our operations against the enemy on Guam, and his heroic conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon Captain
Widdecke and the United States Naval Service.
Serial: SPECIAL (SofN signed May 28, 1946)
Born: at Bryan, Texas
Home Town: Dallas, Texas
WILCOX, NICHOLAS A.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Nicholas A. Wilcox, Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion during combat against enemy Japanese forces on Lunga Ridge,
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. While the battalion was being subjected to
ferocious assaults by the enemy and in spite of a change in position, Private Wilcox, serving as assistant gunner in a
mortar section, kept up an accurate and almost continuous fire against the advancing Japanese. With utter disregard for
his own personal safety, he courageously assisted in the evacuation of the wounded and the carrying of ammunition to
the front line units. In the closing hours of the battle he voluntarily joined these units and ably assisted them in stemming
the assaults until he was injured by enemy grenades. His cool courage, devotion to duty, and indomitable fighting spirit
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Hempstead, New York
Home Town: Hempstead, New York
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NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*WOLF, DONALD W.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company A, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: October 8 - 9, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Donald W. Wolf, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving
with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River, Sergeant
Wolf and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily prepared positions.
Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked the small
group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-to-hand combat
against the overwhelming hostile forces, Sergeant Wolf refused to be dislodged from his position and after a tremendous
toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Sergeant Wolf gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Serial 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Hart, Michigan
Home Town: Hart, Michigan
WYGAL, EDWARD R.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Edward R. Wygal, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous devotion to duty as a member of a machine-gun section in the Second Marine Raider Battalion in action
against enemy Japanese armed forces on Makin Island, August 17, 1942. With the advance of the attack line held up by
enemy machine-gun fire, Corporal Wygal, taking advantage of distracting fire by his own section, crept forward, threw a
hand grenade into the enemy machine-gun nest, rushed it and with his pistol killed the last two men in the nest. His
initiative, great personal courage, and complete disregard for his own safety were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
YANCEY, JOHN
(First Award)
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: November 30, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to John Yancey, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while
serving with the Second Marine Raider Battalion in combat against enemy Japanese forces on the upper Lunga River,
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on November 30, 1942. Leading his squad into a hostile bivouac, Corporal Yancey
surprised over a hundred of the enemy and although vastly outnumbered, he charged into the group, his automatic
weapon blasting. Following his daring example, his squad completely overwhelmed the Japanese, killing over fifty and
driving the remainder into the bush. By his swift and courageous action, he won a complete victory over the enemy
without the loss of a Marine. His great personal valor and outstanding leadership were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 0478 (SofN Signed July 17, 1943)
Born: at Plumberville, Arkansas
Home Town: Little Rock, Arkansas
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (Korea)
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Distinguished Service Cross Awards to
Marine Raiders (WWII)
*AYERS, GERALD LAMSON
Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Gerald Lamson Ayers, Private, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider
Battalion in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon
Islands, on 20 July 1943. While bringing well-aimed fire to bear on strong enemy positions,
Private Ayers was severely wounded and later died from these wounds. However, his critical
wounds neither interfered with his fire nor his alertness and when he discovered an enemy
machine gun about to open fire, he passed word back to his comrades and directed fire of his platoon upon it. Refusing
evacuation until the Japanese strong point had been obliterated, Private Ayers' action saved the lives of many of the men
in his company.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 510 (1943)
Home Town: Windsor, Vermont
*BUNN, BENNIE M.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 10, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Bennie M. Bunn, First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion
in action against the enemy on New Georgia Island, British Solomon Islands, on 10 July
1943. When the leading assault elements of his company were held up by a strong enemy
position, the defense of which was built around one heavy and three light machine guns
supported by riflemen, Lieutenant Bunn, calling to four Marines near him, led a charge to a
position close to the heavy machine gun. With grenades and pistol fire he killed the crew and
captured the gun. He then turned the captured weapon against the other machine guns and neutralized their fire so
effectively that they were quickly captured by the emembers of his squad. His bold and rapid action completely
disorganized the enemy position and permitted the company to continue its advance.
War Department, General Order No. 52 (1944)
Born: at Charles City, Iowa
Home Town: Charles City, Iowa
Other Award: Navy Cross (Nicaragua)
Page 49
ARMY DSC AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*CAIN, WILLIAM F., JR.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 7, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William F. Cain, Jr., Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Member of the First Marine Raider Battalion, from 7 to
9 July 1943, while leading his squad in a succession of daring encounters with the enemy at
Enogai, New Georgia, Solomon Islands. When he came upon a fifteen-man Japanese patrol
armed with several machine guns, Corporal Cain led his squad without hesitation in a fierce
struggle; personally capturing one of the machine guns and killing five of the enemy,
including the officer in command. Corporal Cain displayed sustained courage and battle leadership, moving his squad
time after time into the most perilous positions so that he could strike with maximum force and deadly effect. His heroic
conduct under fire won him the highest respect and admiration of his entire company.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 5 (January 2, 1944)
Home Town: San Francisco, California
*CORBETT, JOHN R.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John R. Corbett, First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Member of the Fourth Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on
20 July 1943. Twice-wounded, First Lieutenant Corbett intelligently and courageously
maneuvered his platoon in a skillful, steady advance against strong enemy resistance.
Ignoring his own safety in the interest of his men and the success of his assigned mission, he
heroically continued to direct his platoon's fire until he lost consciousness from a third wound
which caused his death.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 529 (December 26, 1943)
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
*COSTELLO, RAY FRANK
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 1, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Ray Frank Costello, Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a member of the Fouth Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy at Vangunu, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 1 July
1943. Until he lost consciousness from the wounds which caused his death, Private Costello
lay in the path of heavy enemy fire between his own lines and those of the enemy and
courageously called out directions of fire to his comrades. His heroic actions were
responsible for the safe temporary withdrawal of his platoon.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 518 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Morris, Illinois
Page 50
ARMY DSC AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*EASTON, CHARLES S.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Charles S. Easton, Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on
20 July 1943. Repeatedly leading his squad in charges against well-established enemy
positions, Corporal Easton was credited with wiping out three machine-gun nests that
blocked the advance of his company. Even when he was wounded, he refused to leave the
fight and directed the fire of his squad until he collapsed. Corporal Easton died of the wounds
he received in the attack where he had displayed the highest type of courage and devotion to
duty.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 510 (December 19, 1943)
Home Town: Carmi, Illinois
*GILBERT, ORRA E.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: June 29, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Orra E. Gilbert, Platoon Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy at Viru Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 29
June 1943. Leading his platoon in an assault on an enemy machine-gun nest, Platoon
Sergeant Gilbert fell seriously wounded close to the front lines. Refusing evacuation or
removal to safety, he continued to direct the fire of his platoon under direct hostile
observation until he was again hit and killed by heavy enemy fire. His courageous actions contributed much to the defeat
of the enemy and in preventing many casualties in his platoon.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 517 (December 20, 1943)
Home Town: Bussey, Iowa
GRAY, OLIN M.
Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Olin M. Gray, Private, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider Battalion
at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. After all the other men
in his machine-gun squad had been either killed or wounded, Private Gray, on his own
initiative, took over the gun and manned it single-handedly with spectacular daring and zeal
during the entire action. He repeatedly exposed himself purposely to the Japanese and boldly
invited fire so that their gun positions would be divulged. These challenging tactics netted
him the discovery and destruction of two enemy machine-gun nests. During a withdrawal, he covered the rear elements
of his company and was the last man to leave the area. His aggressive, fearless conduct was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the service and contributed greatly to the success of his company's share in the action.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 513 (December 19, 1943)
Page 51
ARMY DSC AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
GRIFFITH, SAMUEL B., II
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Headquarters, 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 7 - 10, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Samuel B. Griffith, II, Lieutenant Colonel,
U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while leading the First Marine Raider Battalion
in the attack on an enemy shore battery at Enogai Point, New Georgia, Solomon Islands,
from 7 to 10 July 1943. Colonel Griffith frequently went alone on reconnaissance through
areas covered by enemy fire as he skillfully led his battalion in its advance through swamp
and dense jungle toward the objective. Although his men had been without food or water for
thirty-six hours, his brilliant leaership and courage infused them with fresh energy to deliver
paralyzing blows in the final assault during which four naval guns were seized and 350 of the enemy were killed.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 502 (December 17, 1943)
Born: at Lewistown, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Frankfort, Kentucky
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)
HASH, CHESTER D.
Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Chester D. Hash, Platoon Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on
20 July 1943. Leading his men in vigorous thrusts against japanese emplacements, Platoon
Sergeant Hash was responsible for the destruction of three machine-gun nests. While
attacking the third position, he was struck by five machine-gun bullets but emptied his own
weapon at the enemy and directed the fire of his platoon until the objective was taken. His
aggressiveness and skill sere in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and were an inspiration to the
men with whom he served.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 519 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Whitewright, Texas
HOLMGRAIN, ERIC S.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 1, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Eric S. Holmgrain, First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine
Raider Battalion in action against the enemy on Vangunu, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on
1 July 1943. Ignoring the dangers of exposing himself to enemy fire, Lieutenant Holmgrain
went to the aid of a wounded gunnery sergeant who was lying in the direct line of enemy
machine-gun fire. He not only removed the man to a position of safety but he stopped long
enough during the process to wipe out the enemy machine-gun nest.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 513 (December 19, 1943)
Page 52
ARMY DSC AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
JOHNSON, LOWELL A.
Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 1, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Lowell A. Johnson, Gunnery Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy at Vuru Village, Vangunu, Solomon Islands, on 1 July
1943. Unable to move as a result of three serious wounds, Gunnery Sergeant Johnson lay
between the lines of the enemy and those of his own company and directed fire in an attack
on hostile machine-gun emplacements. Burshing aside a chance to escape unnoticed by the
Japanese, he refused evacuation until the position of his men was secured. Because of his
heroic devotion to duty, many casualties were averted and two or more machine-gun nests were wiped out.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 513 (December 19, 1943)
*MAASSEN, DALE G.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Dale G. Maassen, Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on
20 July 1943. Severely wounded a moment after taking over a machine gun when a member
of his squad was fatally injured, Private First Class Maassen stayed at his post knowing that
the continued operation of his weapon was essential to the movement of his company. Private
Maassen died of the wounds he had ignored in order to deliver well-aimed fire when it was
needed most.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 529 (December 26, 1943)
Home Town: Avoca, Iowa
NOVINA, JOHN
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
Company N, 4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John Novina, Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine
Raider Battalion in action against the enemy in Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon
Islands, on 20 July 1943. Acting promptly and calmly in an emergency during an attack when
all the other men in his squad were either killed or wounded, Private First Class Novina, on
his own initiative, operated a machine gun alone while being subjected to the exceptionally
heavy fire from enemy rifles, machine guns and mortars. His effective fire harassed the
enemy and succeeded in allowing the left flank of his company to withdraw and reorganize for a continuation of the
assault.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 521 (December 22, 1943)
Home Town: Hobart, Indiana
Page 53
ARMY DSC AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*PHILLIPS, CARL
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Carl Phillips, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider Battalion at Bairoko,
New Georgia, Solomon Islands, in action against the enemy on 20 July 1943. With complete
disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Phillips led three charges against three Japanese
machine-gun positions and wiped them all out, clearing the way for his company's continued
advance. Then observing an attempted enemy flanking fire which threatened to inflict a
heavy toll of casualties, he led a charge with an infectious intenseness and determination that
was almost instantly transmitted to the men who rallied under his leadership. He lost his life
at the muzzel of the weapon he was bent on silencing before he died and succeeded in knocking it out of action.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 518 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Hingham, Massachusetts
PHILLIPS, WESLIE L.
Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Weslie L. Phillips, Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine Raider Battalion at
Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, in action against the enemy on 20 July
1943. Occupying a key position in the center of his company's lines, Corporal Phillips
pressed forward alone with a machine gun after all the other men in his squad had become
casualties. The fire he laid down was so destructive that the enemy were driven from a ridge.
Gathering ammunition from the dead and wounded, he held off the enemy while the wounded
were being evacuated under the cover of his fire.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 521 (December 22, 1943)
POLLARD, THOMAS D.
First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 7, 8, 10, & 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Thomas D. Pollard, First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving in the First Marine Raider
Battalion in action against the enemy on New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 7, 8, 10, and 20
July 1943. Leading the charge of his platoon in successful attacks on enemy positions near
Enogai, First Lieutenant Pollard was credited with shooting four enemy snipers who were
concealed in trees. Two days later his platoon was ordered to flank hostile machine-gun
positions which held up the advance of two companies. Lieutenant Pollard led his platoon
through the jungle to the enemy's flank and rear, knocked their gun positions out of action, killed many of the enemy and
drove others into the sea. He then continued to lead the advance to the beach near Enogai Point where two machine guns
were captured. In later attacks against well entrenched forces defending Bairoko, his platoon penetrated enemy positions
and advanced to within 200 yards of the harbor which was defended by a concentration of 90mm mortar fire.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 517 (December 20, 1943)
Page 54
ARMY DSC AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*REGAN, WILLIAM A.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William A. Regan, Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fourth Marine
Raider Battalion in action against the enemy at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon
Islands, on 20 July 1943. Just as his squad was putting a light machine gun into action against
particularly well-prepared Japanese positions, Private First Class Regan received mortal
wounds. Although dying, he continued through sheer courage and zealous devotion to duty to
man the gun and directed a fiercely effective fire until he collapsed.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 517 (December 20, 1943)
Home Town: St. Paul, Minnesota
*SIM, ALEX M.
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 9 & 20, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Alex M. Sim, Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion
in action against the enemy on New Georgia, Solomon Islands. Leading his platoon with
great skill in two successive attacks against superior forces, Second Lieutenant Sim overcame
stiff resistance offered by the enemy and drove them from a vitally important objective near
Enogai on July 9, 1943. Again on 20 July, he displayed the same conspicuous qualities of
inspiring combat leadership in a drive on the Japanese garrison at Bairoko when his platoon
penetrated well-entrenched hostile positions, destroying two machine guns and inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy.
Lieutenant Sim was killed while leading his platoon in the last phase of the bitter attack.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 510 (December 19, 19431943)
Home Town: Colton, California
TEAGUE, WAUSS R.
Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Company Q, 4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: June 30, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Wauss R. Teague, Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy at Vuru Village, Wickham
Anchorage, Vangunu, Solomon Islands on 30 June 1943. While holding a key position on the
west bank of the Kearuka River, Sergeant Wauss R. Teague, of Company Q, 4th Marine
Raider Battalion, was credited with killing at least four enemy snipers. His conduct was at all
times characterized by an intense interest in the safety of his comrades and in the utter defeat
of the enemy.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 502 (December 17, 1943)
Page 55
ARMY DSC AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS
WORLD WAR II
*TOWER, EVERETT L.
Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
4th Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: July 29, 1943
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Everett L. Tower, Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Member fo the Fourth Marine Raider Battalion
while his squad was acting as point for a large combat patrol near Viru Harbor, New Georgia,
Solomon Islands, on 29 June 1943. Moving up a steep hill on a narrow trail, the patrol was
suddenly fired on by strong enemy forces. Disregarding his own safety, Private Tower stayed
on the trail, the only point under hostile observation, to direct the deployment of his
comrades. He was killed as he started to leave the trail after all the men were in a position to
most effectively beat off the attack. His heroic conduct was responsible for averting heavy casualties.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Order No. 518 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Ransomville, New York
Page 56
Navy Cross Awards to Navy Corpsmen and
Medical Officers Attached to Marine
Raiders (WWII)
COLEMAN, KARL B.
Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 8, 13, & 14, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Karl B. Coleman, Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in action on September 8, 13, and 14 1942, while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion at Guadalcanal in the
Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 2/24/1921 at Toler, Kentucky
Home Town: Toler, Kentucky
EILERS, DELBERT DALE
Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 & 14, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Delbert Dale Eilers, Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in action on September 13 and 14, 1942, while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion at Guadalcanal in
the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 10/9/1920 at Virginia, Illinois
Home Town: New York, New York
KINCANNON, WILLIAM BRUCE
Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 & 14, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to William Bruce Kincannon, Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in action on September 13 and 14, 1942, while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion on Guadalcanal, in
the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 6/25/1921 at Ripley, California
Home Town: Long Beach, California
Page 57
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS CORPSMEN
WORLD WAR II
MACCRACKEN, WILLIAM B., II
Lieutenant (j.g.) (MC), U.S. Navy
Medical Officer (Attached), 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17 & 18, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to William B. MacCracken, II, Lieutenant (j.g.) (MC), U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in action on August 17 and 18, 1942, while serving as the Senior Medical Officer for the Marine Raider
Expedition against Makin Island in the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 9/2/1907 at Mount Vernon, New York
Home Town: Berkeley, California
MARSH, WILBUR LEE
Pharmacist’s Mate First Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Wilbur Lee Marsh, Pharmacist’s Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
while serving as company corpsman with the First Marine Raider Battalion during an engagement with enemy Japanese
forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13 - 14, 1942. When his company was almost
completely surrounded by the Japanese and under attack from all directions, Marsh, with utter disregard for his own
personal safety, constantly exposed himself to enemy fire to care for and evacuate the wounded. As a result of his
dauntless courage and outstanding devotion to duty, he undoubtedly saved the lives of many of the injured who
otherwise might have perished. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.
Born: 1/12/1920 at Alliance, Ohio
Home Town: Plainsville, Ohio
MATHIS, LLOYD THOMAS
Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 & 14, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Lloyd Thomas Mathis, Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in action on September 13 and 14, 1942, while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion on Guadalcanal in
the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 10/25/1919 at Cherokee County, South Carolina
Home Town: Clifton, South Carolina
MCLARNEY, EDWARD P.
Lieutenant Commander (MC), U.S. Navy
Medical Officer (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 & 14, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Edward P. McLarney, Lieutenant Commander (MC), U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in action on September 13 and 14, 1942, while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion on Guadalcanal in
the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 6/10/1909 at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
Page 58
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS CORPSMEN
WORLD WAR II
*PARKER, THADDEUS
Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 - 14, 1942
Citation:
The Navy Cross is presented to Thaddeus Parker, Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for for extraordinary
heroism while serving as company corpsman during an engagement with enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Island, on the night of September 13 - 14 1942. When his company was almost completely surrounded by the
Japanese and under attack from all directions, Parker, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, constantly
exposed himself to enemy fire to care for and evacuate the wounded. As a result of his dauntless courage and outstanding
devotion to duty, he undoubtedly saved the lives of many of the injured who otherwise might have perished. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 11/13/1923 at Cross City, Florida
Home Town: Cross City, Florida
POTTER, ALBERT MARSHALL, JR.
Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 & 14, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Albert Marshall Potter, Jr., Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in action on September 13 and 14, 1942, while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion on
Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States.
Born: 5/27/1921 at Providence, Rhode Island
Home Town: West Springfield, Massachusetts
ROEBUCK, GERALD EDWARD
Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: September 13 & 14, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Gerald Edward Roebuck, Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in action on September 13 and 14, 1942, while serving with the First Marine Raider Battalion on Guadalcanal in
the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 7/26/1923 at Birmingham, Alabama
Home Town: Birmingham, Alabama
SKINNER, ROBERT W., III
Lieutenant (MC), U.S. Navy (Reserve)
Corpsman (Attached), 1st Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 7, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Robert W. Skinner, III, Lieutenant (MC), U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in action from August 7 to October 10, 1942, while serving with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion at Tulagi in the
Solomons. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 2/6/1911 at Cynwyd, Pennsylvania
Home Town: North Wales, Pennsylvania
Page 59
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS CORPSMEN
WORLD WAR II
STIGLER, STEPHEN L.
Lieutenant (MC), U.S. Navy (Reserve)
Medical Officer (Attached), 2d Marine Raider Battalion,
Date of Action: August 17, 1942
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Stephen L. Stigler, Lieutenant (MC), U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
action on August 17 and 18, 1942, while attached to the 2d Marine Raider Battalion at Makin in the Gilbert Islands. His
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: 1/13/1917 at Greenwood, Mississippi
Home Town: Birmingham, Alabama
Page 60
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history of our American Presidents,
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All Books are available for download FREE of charge!
Photos and historical information on
all Army Air Corps, Air Service and
U.S. Air Force MOH recipients.
Vietnam MOH Recipients
Native American MOH
Recipients
Jewish MOH Recipients
Asian-American MOH Recipients
Army Ranger MOH Recipients
National Guard MOH Recipients
PLUS MANY MORE!
NAVY CROSS AWARDS TO MARINE RAIDERS CORPSMEN
WORLD WAR II
www.HomeOfHeroes.com/books and www.HomeOfHeroes.com/publisher
Page 62
About The Author:
DOUG STERNER
“Mr. Doug Sterner, in the truest sense of the word, is a
genuine “All American.” As a patriot he is the best of the
best. His passion for our country, our citizens and our
children runs deep in his veins. He feels in his soul the great
indebtedness we have to our country for the freedoms we
enjoy.
Doug speaks with great enthusiasm and a
tremendous fervor, leaving you with your heart racing,
standing taller and possibly drawing a tear from your eye,
feeling proud to be an American."
Peter C. Lemon, Recipient
Congressional Medal of Honor
Doug Sterner is a popular author, speaker, Webmaster and historian who has dedicated his
life to preserving the stories of some of our Nation’s greatest heroes. He has single-handedly
authored more than 20,000 web pages in his popular site at www.HomeOfHeroes.com. A
dedicated public servant in his hometown of Pueblo, Colorado; he initiated and organized several
programs to introduce Medal of Honor recipients to the community, including a series of school
assemblies that brought history and inspiration to more than 32,000 youth in one day of activities.
He and his wife Pam’s continuing programs resulted in the community bidding for and hosting
the Medal of Honor convention in Pueblo in September 2000. Other activities have resulted in
local schools promoting and passing legislation in two states authorizing distinctive Medal of
Honor license plates.
Doug is a decorated, two-tour veteran of service in Vietnam
where he served as a squad leader in the US Army. Following
discharge from active duty, he spent 6 years as a member of the
Montana National Guard. In 1998 the Congressional Medal of
Honor Society recognized the continuing efforts of the Sterner
Family when it presented Doug with its prestigious and unique
Distinguished Citizens Award. In 1999 Governor Bill Owens
appointed Doug to the Colorado State Board of Veterans Affairs. In
2001 he was elected to a 2-year term as Chairman of the Colorado
State Board of Veterans Affairs.
"As a patriot, speaker, writer and historian you are among the
best.
"The fact that Doug laughed at my jokes in Da Nang (Vietnam) in
1971 has nothing to do with the praise I give him.
"Okay, It helped a little."
Mr. Bob Hope
Doug Sterner
3111 Thatcher – Pueblo, CO 81005
(719) 564-1755
Email: Doug@HomeOfHeroes.com