Navy Cross Awards to members of the U.S. Marines in World War II

To All Who Shall See These Presents Greeting:

This is to Certify that
The President of the United States of America
Takes Pleasure in Presenting

THE NAVY CROSS
to

HABERMAN, ROGER A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roger A. Haberman (0-9402), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Section Leader and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-121), Marine Air Group FOURTEEN (MAG-14), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area during the period 9 October 1942 to 22 January 1943. So skillful and daring was Lieutenant Haberman's leadership that during the above period his section of eight fighter planes shot down sixty-eight enemy aircraft. Lieutenant Haberman personally accounted for seven of them. On one occasion, after having been wounded, he returned to the engagement and shot down an enemy bomber. His courageous conduct and aggressive leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Commander, South Pacific Forces

HACKER, ELMER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Elmer Hacker (278323), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the landing assault and seizure of enemy Japanese-held Tulagi Island, British Solomon Islands, on the night of 7 - 8 August 1942. 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

*HAGEDORN, BRUNO P. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Bruno P. Hagedorn (0-7480), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Second Lieutenant Hagedorn, in the face of withering fire from Japanese fighter guns and anti-aircraft batteries, dived his plane to a perilously low altitude before releasing his bombs. Since he failed to return to his base and is mission in action, there can be no doubt, under conditions attendant to the Battle of Midway, that he gave up his life in the defense of his country. His cool courage and conscientious 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 10, 1942
Born: at Newark, New Jersey
Home Town: Newark, New Jersey

HAHN, HENRY W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Henry W. Hahn (382946), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader of an assault platoon in Company K, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 15 and 16 September 1944. Observing four of the enemy setting up a heavy machine gun in a position which seriously threatened his squad, Corporal Hahn crawled forward and, with unerring aim, tossed hand grenades into the hostile position, killing three of the Japanese and forcing the other to flee. Having captured the gun, he continued to lead his men in a furious running assault against hostile positions defending the north end of the beach, inflicting heavy casualties on the hostile troops and winning new positions for the friendly forces. Twice during the night and early on the morning of 16 September when the enemy launched bitter counterattacks, he expertly directed the fire of his unit and was instrumental in repulsing the assaults with great damage to the enemy force. Later in the day, although he had been wounded by shrapnel, he steadfastly refused to discontinue his efforts, led his squad in a reconnaissance patrol and, upon encountering a numerically superior hostile force, drove them back with rifles and hand grenades, permitting himself to be evacuated only after he had accomplished his mission and returned to friendly lines. His outstanding courage, determined leadership and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of tremendous odds reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Hahn and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 701: Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on July 10, 1951
Born: at Detroit, Michigan
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan

HAHN, ORVILLE V.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Orville V. Hahn (411190), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gunner of Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. When his company was ordered to seize a ridge to which the enemy had clung tenaciously and from which devastating fire had prevented two previous attempts to dislodge them, Private First Class Hahn realized that, due to the nature of the terrain, it would be impossible to deliver effective machine-gun fire on the enemy from an emplaced position. Standing upright, he began firing from the hip, catching the enemy by his sudden maneuver and forcing them to break from their positions and commence withdrawing. Although other men were wounded and killed within a few yards of him, Private First Class Hahn never wavered in his determination to carry out his mission and, expending seven hundred rounds of ammunition, inflicted at least twenty-five casualties upon the enemy and effectively neutralized this pocket of resistance, thereby enabling his company to seize the ridge. His outstanding courage, aggressive fighting spirit and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Hahn and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 44534 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Pennsgrove, New Jersey
Home Town: Carney's Point, New Jersey

HAILEY, THOMAS E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas E. Hailey (284544), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for exceptional courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety while serving on board the U.S.S. OKLAHOMA (BB-37) during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. Upon the U.S.S. OKLAHOMA capsizing within ten minutes after the beginning of the attack, Sergeant Hailey swam to the U.S.S. Maryland, alongside of which the U.S.S. OKLAHOMA was moored, and from there assisted materially for a short time in the rescue of the U.S.S. OKLAHOMA crew. He then, on his own initiative, assisted in manning an anti-aircraft gun of the U.S.S. Maryland in a most efficient manner, despite the severe enemy bombing and strafing and the fact that he had previously had not experience in the use of that particular type gun. Later, upon arrival at the Naval Air Station, Pearl Harbor, Sergeant Hailey clothed only in his underwear and armed with a rifle, volunteered and went up in an airplane that was leaving on a search mission where he remained for about five hours, returning to the Air Station at about 4:30 that afternoon. His outstanding courage, aggressive fighting spirit and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Hailey and the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on April 28, 1942
Born: November 13, 1916 at St. Joseph, Missouri
Home Town: St. Joseph, Missouri

HALL, WILLIAM CARVEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Carvel Hall (0-381), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 to 29 July 1944. Landing with the initial assault elements of his Regiment in the face of intense Japanese machine-gun, mortar and small-arms fire, Colonel Hall, with complete disregard for personal safety, proceeded from the beach to Chonito Cliff and, remaining steadfast in his exposed position, expertly directed the attack on strategic Adelup Point. Opposed by a numerically superior enemy, strongly entrenched in caves dominating the high ground, he led an attack which moved forward, and seized the hostile positions with a minimum of casualties. Again placing himself with the forward echelons of the assault group on 28 July, Colonel Hall, braving concentrated rifle and mortar fire, fearlessly led his men until the Regiment had attained its objective and consolidated positions against frequent Japanese counterattacks. By his tireless devotion to duty, great professional skill and personal heroism, Colonel Hall contributed directly to the success of our forces in retaking the Island of Guam, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Forces, Serial 00893 (July 23, 1950)
Born: at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Fairfax, Virginia

HALUCHAK, ALEX
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Alex Haluchak (284042), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader of the First battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the invasion of Namur island, Kwajalein Atoll, on 1 and 2 February 1944. Valiantly refusing to leave the fight although twice wounded soon after landing, Corporal Haluchak led his men in a fierce and unrelenting attack against the enemy. Consistently in the van of the crushing assault throughout the entire battle, he inspired the men about him by his steadfast courage and utter disregard for personal safety and, when his comrades were brought under an intense automatic weapons barrage from the left flank, ordered them to remain in protected positions and fearlessly proceeded alone to silence the hostile fire at its source. His heroic leadership, cool judgment and superb performance of duty during this perilous engagement reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Haluchak and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 2788
Born: at Bentleyville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Cleveland, Ohio

*HAMILTON, HENRY B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Henry B. Hamilton (0-12186), Marine Gunner, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Gunner of a fighter airplane in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE (VMF-223), Marine Air Group TWENTY-THREE (MAG-23), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomons Islands Area on 18 and 21 October 1942. Taking part in an aerial engagement against the enemy on 18 October, Marine Gunner Hamilton personally destroyed two hostile fighter planes and one heavy bomber. Three days later his flight of eight planes attacked twenty-seven Japanese aircraft and shot down six. His courage, skill, and indomitable fighting spirit were a never-failing source of confidence to his comrades and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Board Serial: 01177 (SofN Signed October 28, 1943)

HANKINS, JOSEPH F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph F. Hankins (0-5534), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, from 26 to 31 December 1943. Braving withering fire from hostile small arms, machine guns, mortars and light cannon, Lieutenant Colonel Hankins courageously led his battalion in a vigorous assault against three strongly fortified Japanese emplacements, steadfastly maintaining an exposed position to direct the assault and deploy his men for maximum effectiveness. By his brilliant and inspiring leadership in the front lines, he enabled his units to destroy all three enemy strongholds, capturing numerous hostile weapons and killing over six hundred of the enemy with only light casualties to his command. Lieutenant Colonel Hankins' indomitable fighting spirit and fearless devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0861 (SofN Signed December 19, 1944)
Born: at Vernon, Alabama
Home Town: Empire, Alabama

HANNA, ROBERT M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert M. Hanna (0-6327), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with the FIRST Marine Defense Battalion, Naval Air Station, Wake Island, during the enemy Japanese landings on Wake Island, 23 December 1941. Commanding beach defenses on the island's south shore where the enemy's main landings were launched under cover of darkness, Second Lieutenant Hanna personally operated a three-inch gun in a determined attempt to repulse a beached Japanese troop-carrying destroyer and, countering a sudden attack by three members of a hostile patrol infiltrating his position, killed all three with his pistol, and then promptly resuming control of his gun, continued to deliver a steady stream of shells into the menacing warship and succeeded in firing and in ultimately destroying the enemy vessel. Throughout the remainder of the night Second Lieutenant Hanna and two men held out unaided against the invading force until reinforced by members of Marine Fighting Squadron Two Hundred Eleven. When a hostile sniper gained a point of vantage controlling the post and fired into the group, wounding the senior officer present, Second Lieutenant Hanna immediately located and killed the enemy rifleman, thereby preventing the probable annihilation of the small post garrison. Instantly assuming command of the position, he gallantly led his outnumbered men in fighting off repeated Japanese attacks until informed by higher authority that the island had been surrendered. By his inspiring leadership, indomitable spirit and steadfast devotion to duty under fire, Second Lieutenant Hanna rendered valiant service in the gallant defense of Wake Island, and his conduct throughout sustained and enhanced the highest tradition of the United States Naval Service.
Board Serial: 06322 (January 24, 1946)
Born: at Fort Worth, Texas
Home Town: Fort Worth, Texas

*HANNA, WILLIAM T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William T. Hanna (351782), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces near the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8 - 9 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 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.
Board Serial: 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

HANSBERRY, EDWARD H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward H. Hansberry (505119), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Leader of an Engineer Squad of Company B, First Engineer Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu islands, 20 May 1945. Volunteering to clear a path for advancing tanks, Corporal Hansberry fearlessly exposed himself to intense enemy machine-gun, rifle and mortar fire in order to locate and uproot hostile mines which prohibited forward movement of the tanks. Crawling on his hands and knees about fifteen feet ahead of the firing tanks, he disposed of all the mines in an area seventy-five yards in length and, by his courageous efforts, enabled the tanks to pass through the area unmolested and accomplish their mission. His coolness and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 79496
Born: at Atlantic City, New Jersey
Home Town: Atlantic City, New Jersey

HANSEN, CHRIS M. R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chris M. R. Hansen (0-23552), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Rifle Platoon Leader of Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 25 February 1945. Wounded while leading his platoon through intense enemy mortar, artillery and machine-gun fire against strong enemy positions located on commanding ground, First Lieutenant Hansen gallantly continued to lead his platoon until he had succeeded in reaching positions far in advance of adjacent units. While still under intense enemy fire, he organized the position and accomplished the evacuation of the casualties before he permitted himself to be evacuated. His courage and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 86494
Born: at Cranfills Gap, Texas
Home Town: Cranfills Gap, Texas

HANSEN, HERMAN, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Herman Hansen, Jr. (0-6389), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer and a Pilot of Marine Fighting Squadron ONE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-112), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Amami-O-Shima, Japan, on 12 April 1945. Leading a flight of twelve carrier-based fighter planes against a numerically superior force of hostile aircraft, Major Hansen skillfully shot down three enemy fighters and aided his squadron in destroying or seriously damaging the entire formation. On returning to base, he again led his flight in destroying a formation of enemy dive bombers which were attempting to make suicide attacks on our surface forces. A superb leader and airman, Major Hansen contributed to the destruction of twenty enemy aircraft and to the infliction of crippling damage on six others, returning his entire flight to base, intact and undamaged. His gallant fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0558 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Kansas City, Missouri
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

*HANSEN, LESLIE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Leslie E. Hansen (455844), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the First Amphibian Tractor Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, during the attack on the Japanese-held Cape Gloucester Airdrome, New Britain Island, on 26 December 1943. Serving as a volunteer gunner on an amphibious tractor assaulting an enemy pillbox which was impeding the forward movement of our troops, Private First Class Hansen skillfully manned a machine gun on the rail of the tractor during the advance into enemy lines until the machine became temporarily wedged between two trees in the dense jungle about five yards from the Japanese emplacement. Perilously exposed to the immediate and fierce counterattack from the enemy, Private First Class Hansen fought his gun valiantly and with undiminished skill despite severe injury to his hand. Boldly engaging in hand-to-hand combat with a Japanese who had managed to climb up the side, he lost his balance in the desperate fight and fell from the tractor, dragging his opponent with him. His indomitable fighting spirit and selfless 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, Serial 0629 (SofN Signed August 5, 1944)
Born: at Pavillion, New York
Home Town: Bergen, New York

HANSEN, PAUL L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Paul L. Hansen (455843), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Amphibian Tractor Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in operations against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester Airdrome, New Britain, on 21 December 1943. Courageously volunteering to drive an amphibian tractor against a strategic enemy pillbox which was holding up the advance of friendly assault troops, Private First Class Hansen pressed forward through the dense jungle, broke through the Japanese lines and advanced steadily until, in executing a difficult turn toward the hostile pillbox, his tractor was caught between two trees a few yards from the objective. Instantly subjected to fierce and concentrated enemy fire, he coolly worked at the controls, quickly extricated the tractor and, when two of the Japanese climbed upon the front of the vehicle, opened the armored shutter of the driver's seat and shot the aggressors with a pistol. Smashing forward with his heavy amphibian, he crushed the pillbox, thereby enabling friendly forces to continue the advance. Pushing relentlessly onward, he succeeded in destroying additional enemy emplacements before returning to a position within friendly lines. By his indomitable fighting spirit, quick decision and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Hansen effected the death of sixty-eight Japanese and inflicted destruction upon several hostile emplacements. His outstanding valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 01303
Born: at Pavillion, New York
Home Town: Batavia, New York

HANSEN, RICHARD O.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard O. Hansen (0-28077), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-FOUR (VMF-224), Marine Air Group THIRTY-ONE (MAG-31), FOURTH Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 6 May 1945. While flying on radar picket patrol, First Lieutenant Hansen observed an enemy plane attempting a suicide run on a friendly destroyer and, courageously diving through an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire from seven ships, succeeded in shooting down the Japanese plane fifty feet from the destroyer, thereby undoubtedly saving the ship from damage or possible destruction. His daring airmanship, courage and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, Amphibious Forces, Pacific: Serial 712 (SofN Signed January 28, 1948)
Born: at St. Paul, Minnesota
Home Town: St. Paul, Minnesota

*HANSON, ROBERT MURRAY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Murray Hanson (0-19154), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Pilot of a Fighter Plane attached to Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED FIFTEEN (VMF-215), Marine Air Group FOURTEEN (MAG-14), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area from 5 January 1944 to 3 February 1944. Intercepted by a superior number of Japanese fighters while covering a flight of our bombers in a strike against enemy shipping in Simpson harbor on 14 January, First Lieutenant Hanson boldly engaged the hostile planes in fierce combat, pressing home repeated attacks with devastating force. Separated from his squadron during the intense action, he valiantly continued the engagement alone, successfully destroying five enemy Zeros before being forced by lack of ammunition and gasoline to return to his base. First Lieutenant Hanson's superb airmanship, brilliant initiative and dauntless fighting spirit enabled our bombers to deliver a crushing blow to the Japanese in that sector and return safe to their base and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Board Serial: 0763 (April 29, 1944)
Born: February 4, 1920 at Lucknow, India
Home Town: Newtonville, Massachusetts
Other Award: Medal of Honor (WWII)
HARDEE, LEE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lee H. Hardee (297144), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as an Acting Platoon Leader of Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines (Reinforced), Fifth Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 24 June 1944. Leading his men in an assault on heavily-defended Mount Tapotchau, the Battalion objective, Platoon Sergeant Hardee fought all the way to the base of the last remaining ridge where his company was held up by enemy machine-gun fire. Equipped with all the excess hand grenades in his platoon and a prepared demolition charge, he went forward to destroy the hostile positions and, working his way through the jagged rock, flanked the first machine gun and destroyed it and its crew with the demolitions charge. Unable to cross an opening without exposing himself to the fire of the other gun, he crawled to the edge of the clearing and neutralized the position with hand grenades, thereby enabling his platoon to organize and defend the ridge and assist in the subsequent advance of the Battalion. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Platoon Sergeant Hardee and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8531
Born: at Kiowa, Oklahoma
Home Town: Casper, Wyoming

*HARDING, WARREN G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Warren G. Harding (476554), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gunner with the First Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, Fifth Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 16 June 1944. After his company had seized a strategic hill and repulsed a subsequent bitter counterattack by Japanese infantry troops in close-range fighting, Private First Class Harding courageously volunteered to remain alone in the forward area with his machine gun to cover the reorganization of his platoon for a further defense against another imminent attack. When the enemy again advanced against his position, he steadfastly held his ground and, although mortally wounded during the fierce engagement, continued firing until he had completed his mission. By his daring initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor, Private First Class Harding contributed materially to the success of a vital operation against the enemy in this strategic war area, and his self-sacrificing devotion to duty throughout the perilous engagement was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 1160 (February 22, 1945)
Born: at Bernidji, Minnesota
Home Town: Constance, Minnesota

HARKNESS, ROBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Harkness (270548), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company D, Second Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 6 March 1945. Faced by exceptionally strong enemy defenses in depth located for the effective employment of cross-fire and mutual support in terrain too rough to permit the use of tanks, Platoon Sergeant Harkness realized that only close-in fighting could break the Japanese lines. Organizing his platoon, he boldly advanced at the head of his men, throwing hand grenades as me moved and completely exposing himself to a barrage of intense machine-gun and rifle fire and a concentration of hostile mortar shells. By his courageous example, he furnished his men with the incentive to launch a furious assault on the stubborn enemy defenses and, despite wounds which he received during the action, encouraged his unit to continue the close-in fighting and seize the objective. His aggressive and capable leadership, exemplary courage and unselfish devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on Platoon Sergeant Harkness and the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 44965 (November 4, 1948)
Born: at Missoula, Montana
Home Town: Missoula, Montana

HARPER, HAROLD E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold E. Harper (224637), First Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as First Sergeant of Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 15 March 1945. Armed only with a shotgun and hand grenades after hostile forces had attacked his company and inflicted casualties, First Sergeant Harper single-handedly sought out and attacked the enemy and, although severely wounded, boldly continued his relentless firing until he had exhausted all his ammunition. When his wound had been treated, he made a second hazardous trip to the area and carried out another attack until he had succeeded in annihilating all of the nineteen resisting Japanese. By his indomitable courage and initiative, First Sergeant Harper upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 54922 (SofN Signed October 6, 1947)
Born: at Dayton, Ohio
Home Town: Twin Falls, Idaho

HARRELSON, STEWART E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Stewart E. Harrelson (302192), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the invasion of Guam, Marianas Islands, on the afternoon of 25 July 1944. After his company had been forced to evacuate an untenable position, Corporal Harrelson moved forward of the front lines on four separate occasions in the face of heavy enemy machine-gun and rifle fire and removed seven wounded men to safety. By his courageous conduct, he served as an inspiration to the men in his unit and contributed materially to the high state of confidence and morale existing in the front line elements. His gallant concern for the welfare of his comrades was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 00406
Born: at Darlington, South Carolina
Home Town: Columbia, South Carolina

HARRER, KEITH J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Keith J. Harrer (560843), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rifleman of Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 11 May 1945. When his company's position was threatened by a strong hostile counterattack supported by intense rifle and grenade fire from the front and by machine-gun fire from the flank, Private First Class Harrer courageously exposed himself to the murderous enemy fire to man an automatic rifle whose operator had been wounded. Although himself wounded by a barrage of automatic fire and further endangered by a constant shower of grenades thrown at his foxhole, he attacked and silenced the hostile machine gun, thus enabling the remainder of his unit to concentrate its fire on the Japanese attacking his company from the front. Steadfastly refusing to leave his post for evacuation, he continued to man his gun and, after twice repulsing enemy attempts to put the machine gun back in operation, finally succeeded in destroying the crew as well as the gun itself. By his unfaltering courage and determination under fire, Private First Class Harrer contributed materially to the success of his unit in defeating the Japanese. His initiative was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 79500
Born: at Minneapolis, Minnesota
Home Town: Minneapolis, Minnesota

HARRIS, BOONE T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Boone T. Harris (830049), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Scout of Headquarters Company, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action at Peleliu, Palau Islands, 20 September 1944. After his company had been cut down by hostile machine-gun fire during an assault over open ground, Private First Class Harris boldly returned to the area through intense fire from automatic weapons emplaced in caves on the crest of a ridge and, single-handedly turning on the first cave, emptied his pistol into the enemy gun crew. After silencing the weapon with hand grenades, he picked up an automatic rifle and, delivering intense fire into a second Japanese position, enabled two men of his company to crawl to safety. Then, under cover of smoke grenades, Private First Class Harris seized a third casualty and carried him across his shoulders out of the fire-swept zone. Although subjected to continual machine-gun fire from enemy positions located on adjoining ridges during his actions, he saved the lives of several comrades who might otherwise have perished. His coolness, gallant fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 00435
Born: at Tazewell, Tennessee
Home Town: Jonesville, Virginia

HARRISON, HENRY A., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Henry A. Harrison, Jr. (820356), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Group Leader, serving with Company H, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, During action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 15 March 1945. When the enemy could not be dislodged by rifle fire or grenades during an attempt by our troops to silence a heavy gun, Private First Class Harrison led his group in a charge on the hostile position and, although flash-blinded by an enemy grenade and unable to see clearly, braved a constant hail of rifle fire and grenades to engage in hand-to-hand combat with the Japanese. Personally annihilating five of the enemy, he forced the others to take cover in a deep cave and, leaving his men to guard the cave, ran back through hostile rifle and machine-gun fire to obtain explosives. Carrying them forward to the cave, he placed a charge to destroy the installation and, although wounded by rifle fire, remained in his exposed position until the charge was set. Crawling to another position, he refused evacuation until the area was secured. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Harrison and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 52530 (SofN Signed November 29, 1947)
Born: at Houston, Texas
Home Town: Houston, Texas

HARRISON, LAWRENCE A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lawrence A. Harrison (268287), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company E, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 12 - 13 September 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 13 September, 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 enemy-infested area. His prowess, leadership and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Board Serial: 298 (SofN Signed June 23, 1943)
Born: at Benton, Kansas
Home Town: Benton, Kansas

HART, FRANKLIN A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Franklin A. Hart (0-404), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Regimental Combat Team Twenty-Four, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the attack on Roi-Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, 1 and 2 February 1944. Landing when the assault troops had advanced only one hundred yards from the beach, Colonel Hart fearlessly led his combat team against heavy enemy resistance in a crushing attack toward its first objective. After repelling numerous counterattacks during the night, he skillfully reorganized his depleted units and effected a coordinated assault the next morning, rapidly overcoming all remaining opposition and exterminating a large force of determined and fanatical Japanese. By his valiant performance of duty and outstanding leadership throughout this perilous assignment, Colonel Hart inspired all with whom he served and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 2788 (July 10, 1946)
Born: at Cuthbert, Georgia
Home Town: Cuthbert, Georgia

*HARVEY, COLIN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Colin C. Harvey (834546), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 16 September 1944. Observing the futile attempts of a medical corpsman to reach a wounded Marine when his company was under intense, persistent enemy rifle and machine-gun fire, Private First Class Harvey voluntarily and with complete disregard for his personal safety made his way forward to an exposed position for the purpose of diverting the hostile fire and covering the corpsman's advance with his own fire and, while thus courageously engaging the enemy, was mortally wounded. By his splendid initiative, aggressive determination and unselfish efforts on behalf of another, Private First Class Harvey was responsible for the success of this vital mission, and his valiant conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: (Serial 0395 (February 1, 1945)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Farina, Illinois

HARVEY, FREDERICK B., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frederick B. Harvey, Jr. (0-22764), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Commander of Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 15 and 16 June 1944. Landing at the water's edge with the initial assault waves in the face of devastating rifle and machine-gun fire, First Lieutenant Harvey moved his platoon inland against fanatic enemy resistance to establish the original point of disembarkation. When a Japanese officer rushed at him swinging a sword, he parried the blow and killed the man with his carbine. Charging an enemy shellhole when his rifle jammed, First Lieutenant Harvey courageously used his bayonet in hand-to-hand combat until a Japanese grenade exploded in the vicinity, knocking off his helmet and forcing him to take cover. Although wounded, he continued his heroic efforts and contributed directly to the success of our forces in taking this fiercely defended Japanese stronghold. By his leadership, fighting spirit and personal valor in the face of overwhelming odds, First Lieutenant Harvey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Board Serial: 145 (January 9, 1950)
Born: at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

HATLER, ELTON L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Elton L. Hatler (965419), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Browning Automatic Rifleman of Company G, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 2 May 1945. Although himself wounded when his platoon had been forced to withdraw in the face of heavy enemy fire, Private Hatler steadfastly refused to leave the side of a Marine whose legs had been blown off below the knee. Fully aware of the danger and voluntarily risking his life, he held off the enemy for three grueling hours, abandoning his position only after the man had succumbed to his wounds and he himself had expended his ammunition. His personal valor and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 56881
Born: at Rosine, Kentucky
Home Town: Hartford, Kentucky

HAZELWOOD, HAROLD R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold R. Hazelwood (284466), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious service, extraordinary courage and disregard of his own condition while serving with Battery H, SIXTH Marine Defense Battalion, Fleet Marine Force, Naval Air Station Midway, during the bombardment of Sand Island, Midway Islands, by Japanese forces on 7 December 1941. Corporal Hazelwood, the switchboard operator at the Command Post, Battery H, was wounded by shell fragments of a projectile that burst in the Command Post. Despite a compound-fractured leg, he immediately set up his switchboard again and reestablished communication. His actions at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on March 18, 1942
Born: September 13, 1920 at Butterfield, Missouri
Home Town: Stark City, Missouri

HEADLEY, JAMES G.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James G. Headley (0-16615), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Operations Officer of the Third Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands, from 15 June to 1 August 1944. Immediately assuming command of Company L when its commanding officer had been seriously wounded and the company pinned down by intense enemy fire, Captain Headley reorganized the company and, exposing himself to direct hostile fire, inspired his men to charge and overrun the heavily fortified positions. Later, in full view of the Japanese and under intense hostile machine-gun and rifle fire, he led an assault against strongly defended positions on Hill 500 and contributed greatly to the capture of that hill by his battalion. When his company was again pinned down by machine-gun and mortar barrages, he maneuvered his depleted units to bring their full fire effect upon the Japanese on Hill 501, inflicting heavy casualties among them. Although painfully wounded as his company was ordered to withdraw to a more advantageous position, he remained with a small group of men to cover the withdrawal and was one of the last two men to retire from the enemy pocket. His forceful leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 20634 (SofN Approved November 14, 1947)
Born: at Cincinnati, Ohio
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (WWII)
HEADLEY, JAMES G.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to James G. Headley (0-16615), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 22 February to 17 March 1945. Assuming command after all his senior officers became casualties, Captain Headley quickly reorganized his battalion and fought the undermanned unit throughout the remainder of the operation. Although faced with extremely rough terrain and fire from well-camouflaged hostile emplacements, he personally controlled his Battalion from exposed observation posts on the front lines. On 11 March, when his group was attacking an undamaged enemy strong point, he braved the hail of enemy fire to reconnoiter the extreme forward areas, accurately evaluating the terrain and the strength of the hostile positions and personally controlling the advance of his Battalion and the fire of his supporting weapons. By his leadership, bravery and aggressive fighting spirit, Captain Headley contributed greatly to the success of his Battalion in this operation, and his conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 20634 (SofN Signed November 14, 1947)
Born: at Cincinnati, Ohio
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)
HEDLUND, OSWALD JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Oswald Joseph Hedlund (354876), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a member of a combat patrol serving with the FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, 6 January 1944. When the gunner and assistant of his machine-gun squad were seriously wounded as the squad was maneuvering into position, Corporal Hedlund unhesitatingly made his way forward in the face of withering enemy fire and, at great risk to his own life, dragged the two injured men to safety. Again advancing under extremely difficult conditions, he quickly secured his machine gun and ammunition, putting it into action just in time to repulse a fierce, determined enemy charge. Corporal Hedlund's brilliant initiative and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0879 (SofN Signed September 30, 1944)
Born: at Worcester, Massachusetts
Home Town: Worcester, Massachusetts

HEGERTY, THOMAS M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas M. Hegerty (920044), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gun Crewman of Weapons Company, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 6 May 1945. When his section leader and squad leader were seriously wounded during numerous attacks by hostile patrols attempting to capture and destroy a small strategic outpost, Private First Class Hegerty, although suffering injuries caused by concussion, unhesitatingly assumed command and, using the wounded men who were still able to carry on, manned the squad's machine gun. Attacked from all sides, he successfully repulsed the Japanese for eight grueling hours despite the lack of help and medical treatment. At dawn, when his machine gun failed to function properly and most of the ammunition was expended, he rendered the weapon useless and, taking of the two remaining wounded men with him, made his way through enemy territory back to his own lines. Risking his life a second time, he guided another Marine under the same perilous conditions to the position and succeeded in evacuating the remaining wounded man. His indomitable fighting spirit, efficient leadership and initiative in voluntarily risking his life to save the lives of others reflect the highest credit on Private First Class Hegerty and the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 79496 (November 30, 1948)
Born: at Middlesex, New York
Home Town: Middlesex, New York

HEIM, JOHN D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John D. Heim (285004), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy while serving as a platoon sergeant of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands, on 12 April 1945. When his company was ambushed by a numerically superior enemy force. Platoon Sergeant Heim voluntarily led his platoon forward to a vital ridge line in the face of an intense mortar barrage and heavy small-arms fire. During the ensuing fire fight, he constantly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to rally his men and direct fire on the enemy, personally inflicting numerous casualties and aiding materially in the neutralization of the hostile fire. By his inspiring leadership, gallant fighting spirit and devotion to duty, he contributed materially to the establishment of a defensive line and to the reorganization of his company, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 98300
Born: at Tampa, Kansas
Home Town: Fayette, Missouri

*HEINEN, IRA E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Ira E. Heinen (540371), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July 1944. Operating on the exposed left flank of his platoon where he was subjected to intense hostile mortar and machine-gun fire, Private First Class Heinen fought with determined aggressiveness and, although wounded twice, assisted in repelling two fierce charges by the enemy in that sector, personally accounting for at least eight of the Japanese assailants. Steadfastly refusing to be evacuated until completion of a third vigorous counterattack by the enemy, he resolutely held his ground despite two bayonet wounds and contributed materially to the prevention of a major penetration and encirclement of our position. Later, after his evacuation, he succumbed to his wounds. Private First Class Heinen's great personal valor and indomitable fighting spirit wee in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 004080 (January 1, 1945)
Born: at Junction City, Wisconsin
Home Town: Junction City, Wisconsin

*HELPINGSTINE, HERBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Herbert Helpingstine (353308), 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.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 004313 (January 11, 1945)
Born: at Whiting, Indiana
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

HEMENWAY, CHARLES WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles William Hemenway (364534), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Rifleman in a Company of the Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on 29 December 1943. Arming himself with a Thompson submachine gun in a volunteer search for a group of Japanese snipers who were continually harassing his company's positions, Private First Class Hemenway, accompanied by another Marine, located the hostile snipers entrenched in the roots of a large banyan tree and immediately charged, firing relentlessly on the enemy position. When his comrade fell, seriously wounded by a volley from the snipers' nest, Private First Class Hemenway, gallantly defying Japanese rifle fire, carried the injured Marine to a place of comparative safety at the rear. Returning with a bazooka gun, he voluntarily exposed himself to the enemy as he swept their position repeatedly and furiously with fire, scoring three direct hits on the target and annihilating the hostile rifleman. His cool courage, indomitable fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0693 (SofN Signed September 14, 1944)
Born: at Millburn, New Jersey
Home Town: Linden, New Jersey

HEMPSTEAD, DON C., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Don C. Hempstead, Jr. (0-19640), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, Fifth Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Engebi and Parry Islands, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshals Group, on 18, 19 and 22 February 1944. Dauntlessly leading his platoon in hand-to-hand combat immediately upon landing, First Lieutenant Hempstead pressed home the attack and, striking fiercely on both islands, neutralized the immediate opposition. When his platoon suffered heavy casualties in the assault on Parry island, he refused evacuation for his own wound and, determined to crush all resistance, continually exposed himself to enemy fire to lead his men in the offensive throughout the day. Quick to observe a fellow officer wounded and under attack, First Lieutenant Hempstead unhesitatingly went to his aid and, personally killing four of the Japanese and driving numerous others to flight with grenades and carbine fire, saved the life of his comrade. By his initiative, courage, forceful leadership and unwavering devotion to duty, he served as an inspiration to his men, and his gallant conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 2798
Born: at Spokane, Washington
Home Town: Spokane, Washington

*HENDERSON, LOFTON R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lofton R. Henderson (0-4084), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, Major Henderson, with keen judgment and courageous aggressiveness in the face of strong enemy fighter opposition, led his squadron in an attack which contributed materially to the defeat of the enemy. He was subsequently reported as missing it action. It is believed he gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
Born: at Cleveland, Ohio
Home Town: Gary, Indiana

*HENNESSY, DANIEL J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Daniel J. Hennessy (0-5356), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Executive Officer and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Leading his squadron in a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Captain Hennessy aided in disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. As a result of his courageous and daring tactics and because of the circumstances attendant upon this engagement, there can be little doubt that Captain Hennessy gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. He displayed the characteristics of a fine leader and excellent airman, in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
Born: at Reynolds, North Dakota
Home Town: Reynolds, North Dakota

HERBST, WARREN R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Warren R. Herbst (346610), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Leader of a Machine Gun Section of Company F, Second Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Tinian, Marianas Islands, 26 July 1944. When his company was attacked from the rear during the night and his machine gun section was placed in a perilous situation, Corporal Herbst quickly turned his assault unit to the rear and engaged the Japanese at close quarters. On two different occasions, he advanced alone under heavy enemy machine-gun and rifle fire to secure ammunition and, another time, traversed one hundred yards of terrain raked by heavy fire to obtain a water can to replace the one that had been smashed. When the entire crew of one gun had been wounded or killed, he again exposed himself to hostile fire to retrieve the gun to prevent it from falling into Japanese hands and, in addition, repeatedly aided in evacuating our wounded while under heavy enemy fire. His outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6067
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

HERMLE, LEO D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Leo D. Hermle (0-420), Brigadier General, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Assistant Commanding General of the FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 26 March 1945. Landing early on the afternoon of 19 February, under a heavy concentration of enemy fire, Brigadier General Hermle established an Advanced Division Command Post. When communication with the assault combat teams was extremely difficult and vital information was needed to coordinate a resumption of the attack for the establishment of an initial beachhead, he courageously crossed one hundred and fifty yards of open area of Motoyama Airfield Number One, while it was being swept by enemy fire to visit the front line units and obtained the necessary first-hand information needed. When the enemy took last-stand defensive positions consisting of steel-doored caves and concrete emplacements in the cliffs of a gorge in the northern part of the Island, he skillfully directed a coordinated attack which resulted in heavy losses to the enemy. Brigadier General Hermle's gallant spirit, initiative and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: at Hastings, Nebraska
Home Town: Oakland, California
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)
*HERNANDEZ, NICHOLAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Nicholas Hernandez (481738), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 7 and 8 March 1945. Ordered to attack an enemy strong point which had inflicted heavy casualties upon his own and an adjacent platoon, Corporal Hernandez skillfully deployed his squad to return the vicious enemy fire and personally scouted the hostile positions to learn the nature of the Japanese defenses. Requesting and receiving a half- track, he fearlessly exposed himself to the enemy's small-arms and hand grenade barrage as he staunchly directed the vehicle's fire at point blank range in the destruction of three automatic weapons and, when two Japanese suicide-assault soldiers ran from a spider trap in an attempt to plant a magnetic mine on the side of the half-track, Corporal Hernandez instantly shot and wounded one and killed the other with an accurately aimed hand grenade. Undeterred by two enemy bullets which pierced his helmet, he continued to press the attack and succeeded in removing a menace which had checked the advance of the entire company for four days. Instantly killed by Japanese small-arms fire, Corporal Hernandez, by his outstanding tactical skill, valiant leadership and indomitable devotion to duty in the face of great odds, had contributed essentially to the success of his battalion's operations in this area, and his conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 37627 (Signed October 14, 1946)
Born: at El Paso, Texas
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

*HERNDON, RAYMON W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Raymon W. Herndon (264793), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Marine Division, during the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 and 14 September 1942. While engaged in a hazardous reconnaissance patrol on the southern slope of Hill 50, Private First Class Herndon was mortally wounded. With the enemy advancing rapidly on his position, and realizing that he had no chance to survive, he asked that he be left with a weapon to cover the withdrawal of his patrol to the top of the hill. His brave and loyal fighting spirit above the call of duty, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial: 648 (April 22, 1943)
Born: November 1, 1918 at Walterboro, South Carolina
Home Town: Walterboro, South Carolina

HERWIG, ROBERT J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert J. Herwig (0-20070), 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 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, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 0296-295
Born: at Woodford, California
Home Town: Pomona, California

*HEYLIGER, GEORGE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George Heyliger (373123), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces near the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8 - 9 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.
Board Serial: 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Concord, Massachusetts

HICKOX, CHARLES R., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles R. Hickox, Jr. (0-23566), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 9 May 1945. When his Company was assigned the duties of assaulting and capturing a well-fortified and strongly-defended enemy ridge with its approaches covered by heavy mortar, flanking machine-gun and small-arms fire, First Lieutenant Hickox personally led the assault elements of his company in the attack and was painfully wounded in the leg from hostile rifle fire. Refusing to be evacuated, he continued to lead and direct the attack for a period of three hours, moving among and encouraging the foremost assault troops until the objective was taken. When it became impossible for him to move along the lines because of the loss of blood and stiffness in his wounded leg, he remained with his troops and directed the occupation of the position. After he had assured himself that the newly won objective was secured and the reorganization of his Company had been completed, First Lieutenant Hickox relinquished his command and submitted to evacuation. His indomitable fighting spirit, leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 9966
Born: at York, Connecticut
Home Town: Litchfield, Connecticut

HILL, CHARLES C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles C. Hill (281077), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Acting Leader of a .30 caliber machine gun section of Battery I, FIRST Marine Defense Battalion, Naval Air Station, Wake Island, during the defense of Wake Island against enemy Japanese forces from 8 to 23 December 1941. Instantly taking over when his section leader was unable to continue, Private First Class Hill skillfully reorganized his seven-man section, which included four civilians unfamiliar with the weapons, and directed the barrage of his batteries. Blazing away with his two guns, he raked the enemy with blistering fire, repeatedly drove back fiendish attacks, and cleared the Japanese from his section of the beach. Faced with tremendous odds when two destroyers beached about one hundred and fifty yards from him and began to disgorge armed troops, he unhesitatingly moved forward to take up a dangerously exposed position and enfilade the enemy lines. Oblivious of the danger from the opposing superior firepower, he fought his guns coolly and accurately, shattering the oncoming lines with his withering fire, killing approximately one hundred and fifty Japanese, and forcing countless others to withdraw. His inspiring leadership, courage under fire, and unfaltering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Hill and the United States Naval Service.
Board Serial: SPECIAL (Approved January 8, 1946)
Born: at Plant City, Florida
Home Town: Madison, Florida

HILL, EUGENE L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Eugene L. Hill (325441), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Leader of a Light Machine Gun Squad of Company I, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 21 November 1943. With the tripod of his machine gun damaged beyond further use during an attack against a strong hostile position, Sergeant Hill cradled the weapon in his arms and, exposing himself to heavy enemy machine-gun fire while firing against the Japanese from a kneeling position, ignited a powder magazine in the hostile emplacement and destroyed it. By his indomitable fighting spirit, Sergeant Hill contributed materially to the success of our operations, and his devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 01489 (February 17, 1948)
Born: at Uniontown, Ohio
Home Town: Uniontown, Ohio

HILL, ROBERT E.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert E. Hill (0-4555), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Second Marines (Reinforced), SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 9 to 12 October 1942. When a tow line was severed while his convoy was sailing under cover of darkness, causing the loss of a number of troops and confusion among the remainder, Lieutenant Colonel Hill volunteered to approach the beach in a small boat and, with the aid of two native guides, attempted to determine the position of the enemy. Locating the hostile troops about one-half mile from his own position, he remained on the beach, formulated a plan for attack and, when his own combat team landed, led it through heavy jungle and swamp areas to launch attacks against a Japanese concentration at Kollotumaria and a coast-watch station at Garabusu, with the result that the enemy was routed in both places and a large amount of vital radio equipment and intelligence material were captured. He then organized a patrol of approximately one hundred men to reconnoiter the area from Aola Bay to the FIRST Marine Division Headquarters. His daring initiative, fearless leadership and gallant devotion to duty throughout this period of extremely hazardous action reflect the highest credit on Lieutenant Colonel Hill and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 9126
Born: at Stuttgart, Arkansas
Home Town: Stuttgart, Arkansas
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (WWII)
HILL, ROBERT E.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert E. Hill (0-4555), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Second Marines (Reinforced), SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 1 to 10 November 1942. On 1 November Lieutenant Colonel Hill was ordered to move his Battalion around and behind units of the Fifth and Seventh Marines and assist them in wiping out a large enemy concentration which was holding up the advance. Despite the short time for preparation, the dense jungle and terrific heat, he succeeded in taking position just prior to darkness and contributed materially in the reducing of the hostile concentration and in preventing the withdrawal of the Japanese. With his Battalion a unit of the attacking force during the main drive to Kokumbono, Lieutenant Colonel Hill directed his troops for the next two days against determined hostile resistance which was impeding the advance with heavy artillery and mortar fire. Ordered to organize a defensive position when the attack was discontinued, he directed vigorous patrol activities during a seven-day period and, by his efficient employment of men and supporting weapons, led his unit in repulsing a strong enemy night attack. On 10 November, after he had led his troops in seizing a strong Japanese point of resistance, Lieutenant Colonel Hill was severely wounded by enemy artillery fire. His gallant leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 9126
Born: at Stuttgart, Arkansas
Home Town: Stuttgart, Arkansas
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)
HILLS, CLIFFORD C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clifford C. Hills (242400), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the landing assault and seizure of enemy Japanese-held Tulagi Island, British Solomon Islands, on the night of 7 - 8 August 1942. 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 counter-attack. 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

HILSKY, ROBERT JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Joseph Hilsky (372113), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as a member of while a member of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action during motion against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 27 August 1942. When casualties sustained by the second platoon of his company were left in a helpless plight out front, Private Hilsky, with courageous disregard for his own personal safety, ran a deadly gauntlet of heavy mortar, machinegun and sniper fire in order to rescue a wounded comrade. Although, during his advance, he was stunned by concussion from an exploding shell, he carried on with unwavering determination until he succeeded in the accomplishment of his mission. His conspicuous initiative in saving he life of another at the risk of his own was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
Born: at Manhattan, New York
Home Town: Queens, New York

*HIMELRICK, JOHN ROBERTS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Roberts Himelrick (264094), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Telephone Lineman in a .50 caliber Anti-aircraft Machine-Gun Battery of a Marine Detachment, FIRST Marine Defense Battalion, Naval Air Station, Wake Island, in action against enemy Japanese forces from 8 to 23 December 1941. Intrepid and steadfast in the discharge of his assigned duties during the epic defense of Wake Island, Private First Class Himelrick not only consistently exposed himself to intense enemy shellfire to maintain vital communications between his battery and the Island Command Post, but also voluntarily manned a perilous spotting post for artillery fire when the Japanese made their final desperate assault against the heroic garrison. Continuing to call down fire dangerously close to his own position upon the Japanese troops who had gained the beaches, he unhesitatingly advanced over the fire-swept terrain to a more advantageous position where he immediately engaged the attacking force with savage fury, killing approximately fifteen with his blistering rifle fire. His gallant actions, indomitable fighting spirit and unselfish devotion to duty served as an inspiration to his comrades and reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Himelrick and the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on August 21, 1945
Born: at Price, Utah
Home Town: Seattle, Washington

HINER, HAROLD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold L. Hiner (0-8139), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Number Three Turret Officer aboard the U.S.S. BOISE (CL-47) during action against enemy Japanese forces off Cape Esperance, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942. Remaining at his post until his turret was put out of action by a hit on the face plate and the flooding of his handling room, Second Lieutenant Hiner, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, ordered his men out to safety while he stayed behind to perform valuable service by relaying orders from the damaged turret to Control and Central. His courageous initiative and conscientious devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD (November 11, 1942)
Born: at Kaw City, Oklahoma
Home Town: Pocatello, Idaho

HODGES, HERBERT J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Herbert J. Hodges (374695), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Gunner in an Antitank Rocket Team of Company B, First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 17 June 1944. During a fierce enemy tank and infantry attack at night, Private First Class Hodges moved out to meet the hostile tanks and, bringing his fire to bear on the vehicles, succeeded in hitting and putting out of action, seven hostile tanks while firing only seven rounds of ammunition. His intrepid spirit, great personal valor and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Hodges and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6685 (SofN Signed January 28, 1948)
Born: at Louisville, Kentucky
Home Town: Anchorage, Kentucky

*HOFFMAN, RAYMOND G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Raymond G. Hoffman (286789), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Squad Leader, serving with Company H, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 2 March 1945. Gallantly leading his squad in a vigorous drive against an enemy position fortified by several heavy caliber gun emplacements, Sergeant Hoffman steadily approached the area against a terrific barrage of rifle, machine-gun and mortar fire, repeatedly risking his life during the advance to proceed from man to man and assure himself that each was in proper cover from the blistering fire. Seriously wounded in the shoulder by hostile rifle fire as he launched his attack, he staunchly refused to be evacuated and, striking the enemy with unrelenting fury, directed his men in four successive grenade and hand-to- hand encounters to secure the emplacements and scatter the remaining hostile troops. Concerned only for the welfare of his squad, he fearlessly penetrated the most forward areas to conduct a reconnaissance and ascertain the security of the vicinity and, while carrying out his perilous mission, was fatally struck down by a Japanese rifleman concealed near an adjacent foxhole. By his courageous leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering determination in the face of tremendous odds, Sergeant Hoffman contributed to the success of his squad in accounting for twenty-five Japanese with the loss of only one of his own men. His valiant devotion to duty throughout the fierce action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 35724 (September 6, 1945)
Born: at Jeannette, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Jeannette, Pennsylvania

HOFMANN, FRED, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Fred Hoffmann, Jr. (451526), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 24 July 1944. Placed in charge of two machine-gun squads and ten riflemen protecting a draw leading into his battalion's lines, Corporal Hofmann steadfastly maintained his position despite an overwhelming night attack by hostile forces, inflicting heavy casualties on the wildly rushing Japanese. When an enemy grenade was thrown into the foxhole he shared with three other men, Corporal Hofmann immediately placed a helmet over it and, pinning it down with his shoulder, received the full force of the explosion in his back. Although seriously wounded, he heroically remained at his post until daybreak when all Japanese forces had been driven from the area and, by his courage and initiative, contributed materially to the repulse of the furious onslaught. His determination and devotion to duty throughout this hazardous operation were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8584 (SofN Signed November 20, 1947)
Born: at Jersey City, New Jersey
Home Town: Hoboken, New Jersey

*HOFMANN, WILBUR E, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Wilbur E. Hofmann, Jr. (0-17133), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving as Platoon Leader of an Assault Rifle Company in the Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Suffering severe pain from a wound received in the hip while attempting to gain the North Beach of Betio Island in his amphibian tractor, First Lieutenant Hofmann voluntarily manned a .50-caliber machine gun when his gunner was wounded and forced to abandon his post. Although constantly subjected top a heavy barrage of enemy machine-gun and mortar fire, he remained steadfast at his post while the tractor reached cover and successfully discharged assault troops before he succumbed as a result of a second wound received in the action. By his daring aggressiveness, First Lieutenant Hofmann enabled our troops to succeed in reaching their objective with minimum loss. His splendid initiative, relentless fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty in the face of grave peril reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial: 917 (March 24, 1944)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

HOFSTETTER, ARNOLD CHRISTIAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arnold Christian Hofstetter (0-10016), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine corps, for extraordinary heroism as Executive Officer of Battery H, Third Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 7 July 1944. During a Japanese counterattack on his battery's position, First Lieutenant Hofstetter directed the fire of two howitzers at the advancing troops, using time and ricochet fire until the ammunition was expended, and then organized a defensive position in front of his battery, retaining control of his defensive small-arms fire. Cautioning his men not to open fire until the approaching enemy could be annihilated near his position in order that the Japanese weapons and ammunition might be salvaged for use against the attackers, he effectively stopped the counterattack in his battery area. In the absence of his corpsman, hen then examined and cared for his wounded men until evacuation could be effected. By his courage, leadership and devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Hofstetter contributed materially to our success in this engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8418 (SofN Signed January 23, 1948)
Born: at Portland, Oregon
Home Town: San Diego, California

*HOGABOOM, WILLIAM F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William F. Hogaboom (0-5957), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine corps, for distinguished service in action as Commanding Officer of Battery A, FOURTH Marines (Detached) as member of a Navy Bluejacket-Marine Battalion, in action against the enemy in the defense of the Bataan Peninsula, Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 23 to 31 January. Lieutenant Hogaboom, while attached to a composite Blue Jacket-Marine Battalion hastily organized to expel a strong enemy detachment which had infiltrated and occupied commanding ground dangerously threatening the Miravalis area of Bataan, rendered conspicuous service in controlling and handling mixed units in this action, which succeeded in isolating the Japanese force on Longoskawayan Point where the enemy was destroyed. Lieutenant Hogaboom displayed outstanding qualities of leadership, and by his courageous actions and tireless efforts contributed materially to the success of this important and timely operation. His actions at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Warren, Mississippi

*HOLDREGE, WILLARD B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Willard B. Holdredge (229538), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for distinguished service in action as Commanding Officer of Battery C, FOURTH Marines (Detached) as member of a Navy Bluejacket-Marine Battalion, in action against the enemy in the defense of the Bataan Peninsula, Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 28 December 1941 to 8 April 1942. Lieutenant Holdrege commanded an anti-aircraft battery which, due to conditions of terrain, was completely exposed and subjected to repeated aerial bombardments. By his courage and efficiency, and with complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Holdrege maintained his battery at the peak of battle efficiency in action and thus materially contributed to the defense of the Mariveles area. From 23 to 31 January 1942, he rendered invaluable services while serving with a composite Bluejacket-Marine Battalion which had been hastily formed to expel a strong enemy penetration which dangerously threatened the Miravalis area of Bataan. By his courage, energy, and splendid qualities of leadership he materially contributed to the success of that action which resulted in the enemy being isolated on Longoskawayan Points where it was destroyed. His action at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: at Syracuse, New York
Home Town: East Aurora, New York

HOLDREN, LAWRENCE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lawrence H. Holdren (229538), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company E, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 12 - 13 September 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

HOLLAND, JOHN WISDOM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Wisdom Holland (0-8758), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, from 15 to 30 September 1944. When hostile forces launched two counterattacks against his zone of action, Captain Holland courageously led his assault company in destroying several enemy tanks and in repulsing both attacks. In the face of concentrated hostile artillery, mortar and machine-gun fire, he gallantly maneuvered his company across fourteen-hundred yards of open airfield to drive the enemy from strong defensive positions at the far side, and successfully held the ground. Later, after five days of bitter fighting, Captain Holland launched an aggressive attack against the Japanese entrenched on a precipitous and commanding hill and, when his troops were temporarily pinned down by the intense fire, boldly occupied an exposed position to rally his men to advance and take the position. His determined fighting spirit, able leadership and unwavering devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6881
Born: December 25, 1919 at Jackson, Tennessee
Home Town: Jackson, Tennessee

HOLT, ROMMIE L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rommie L. Holt (0-20078), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while attached to Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 17 March 1945. Landing as a Platoon Leader of a rifle platoon in the initial assault, First Lieutenant Holt efficiently reorganized his unit, which had suffered heavy casualties, and skillfully directed its members in a turning maneuver under trying conditions. Continuing the attack in coordination with another platoon, he inspired his men to heroic efforts in seizing their objective in the face of heavy enemy fire. Later in the same day, when his Commanding Officer and all officers senior to him had become casualties, First Lieutenant Holt unhesitatingly assumed command of his company, reorganized it and, by skillful maneuvers together with supporting arms, successfully led it to a position where it could neutralize the enemy fire that was falling on the landing beaches. As the sole surviving officer of his company, he personally aided in carrying vital supplies from the beach through enemy opposition to his assault units. On 12 March, when the advance of his company to a ridge was halted by intense enemy machine-gun fire, he located the positions of the guns and, exposing himself to their fire, personally directed their destruction. First Lieutenant Holt's courage, initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 42646
Born: at Duplin, North Carolina
Home Town: Richmond, Virginia

HONSOWETZ, RUSSELL E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Russell E. Honsowertz (0-5360), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, from 15 to 20 September 1944. Landing early in the morning of the 15th in the face of heavy mortar, artillery and machine-gun fire, Lieutenant Colonel Honsowetz's unit moved inland and seized its initial objective. Fiercely counterattacked later in the same day by enemy tanks supported by infantry, his men fought desperately to repulse the attack, destroying nine tanks and annihilating the Japanese troops in their zone of action. On the following day, Lieutenant Colonel Honsowetz led his Battalion across an open airfield and through a heavily fortified area to neutralize many hostile concrete emplacements and destroy Japanese troops during the advance. On 17 September, he braved terrific fire from enemy mortars, artillery and machine guns to launch an assault against almost impregnable positions dug into the face of steep cliffs dominating a swamp where Company G was pinned down. Determined to relieve the situation, he unhesitatingly made his way across the swamp to the front lines and, though frequently forced to submerge completely to escape the full effect of unceasing hostile fire, reached his destination and called for supporting fire and smoke, personally directing the Company in a daring maneuver around the flank while constantly risking his life under the heavy fire to gain more effective control of the units of his Battalion and seize the objective. His indomitable fighting spirit and inspired leadership despite continuing fire and great personal danger throughout this period were important factors in the infliction of heavy losses on the Japanese by his Battalion and in the success of the Peleliu Campaign. His courageous devotion to duty reflects the highest credit upon Lieutenant Colonel Honsowetz and the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 7631 (SofN Approved February 1, 1950)
Born: at LacCu, Wisconsin
Home Town: Spokane, Washington

HOPKINS, THOMAS D., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas D. Hopkins, Jr. (0-23571), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 27 February 1945. A courageous and aggressive leader, First Lieutenant Hopkins led his platoon against heavy enemy emplacements, through difficult terrain and under heavy hostile mortar and machine-gun fire. Although suffering from a chest wound, he refused to be evacuated and went from man to man giving instructions and encouraging the wounded until, after being wounded a second time, he lost consciousness. By his skill and determination, First Lieutenant Hopkins maintained coordination of efforts and enabled his platoon to destroy the Japanese emplacements, thereby insuring the advance of his company to its objective. His courage and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 43822
Born: at Hopkins, South Carolina
Home Town: Hopkins, South Carolina

HORAK, ERNEST W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ernest W. Horak (374897), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of an Assault Unit of Company H, Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Parry, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, 22 February 1944. Assuming command of his squad when his corporal was hit during the initial phase of the assault, Private First Class Horak courageously led his men forward through heavy machine-gun and mortar fire and although momentarily knocked unconscious by a shell fragment, covered the squad's advance with a carbine until it was hot from his hands by machine-gun fire. Taking over the squad's machine gun when the operator was struck by mortar fire, he successfully silenced the enemy's automatic weapons in the area. By his outstanding courage, inspiring leadership, and zealous devotion to duty, Private First Class Horak contributed materially to the success of the operation and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 11172
Born: at Ely, Iowa
Home Town: Cedar Rapids, Iowa

HORNE, THOMAS M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas M. Horne (0-18113), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader, attached to the Fourth Tank Battalion, Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Group, from 15 June to 9 July 1944. Skillful and aggressive, First Lieutenant Horne led a two-tank assault upon three enemy dual-purpose gun emplacements and, rapidly maneuvering under heavy hostile fire, approached to within thirty yards of the positions and put two of the guns out of action before his tank was rendered immobile. Undaunted by the increased danger of his position, he blazed away at the third gun until the seventh hit sustained by his vehicle set fire to the equipment in the turret. Ordering his crew to abandon the tank, he courageously remained to extinguish the fire and then, in the face of Japanese small-arms fire, boldly led his men five hundred yards to the safety of our lines. Instantly mounting another tank, he returned to the front, completing the destruction of the remaining gun positions and annihilating the gun crews. His inspiring leadership, determined perseverance and great personal valor in the face of grave peril reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Horne and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 12079
Born: at Waco, Texas
Home Town: Childress, Texas

HOUSER, RALPH L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ralph L. Houser (0-5118), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on enemy-held Guam, Marianas Islands, 21 through 23 July 1944. Realizing the absolute necessity of clearing the high ground in his sector for the protection of the beachhead, and deprived by casualties of sufficient troop leaders for his troop units, Lieutenant Colonel Houser personally led elements of his Battalion in continuous assaults against enemy positions, exposing himself time after time to hostile fire. After successfully leading his Battalion in the seizure of Chonito Cliff and observing that the left flank of his Battalion was being held up by strong Japanese resistance from Adelup Point, he proceeded to his leading elements despite wounds received in the previous action and, organizing a tank-infantry fighting group, led an assault on the hostile strong point. While exposed to enemy rifle, machine-gun, mortar and artillery fire, he maintained an aggressive attack until this strategic point was completely taken by his Battalion. Always cool and resourceful, Lieutenant Colonel Houser brilliantly led his men throughout this period until seriously wounded on 23 July, while assaulting a particularly well dug-in and defended strong point holding up the advance. By his forcefulness, leadership and outstanding courage in the face of strong hostile resistance, he served as an example to his officers and men and was primarily responsible for clearing the Japanese forces from his sector. His unswerving devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 00421
Born: at Iowa City, Iowa
Home Town: Iowa City, Iowa

HOWARD, SAMUEL L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Samuel L. Howard (0-452), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the FOURTH Marines, U.S. Marine Corps, in the Philippines from 7 December 1941 to 6 May 1942. Although this regiment reached the Philippines just prior to the outbreak of war, and was without its complete equipment, Colonel Howard successfully and efficiently employed his force in the defense of Olongapo until ordered to withdraw on 24 December 1941. The regiment was then shifted to Corregidor where it rendered outstandingly courageous service in the defense of the beaches of that Island Fortress. During the prolonged siege of Corregidor, Colonel Howard commanded all beach defenses with a mixed force of approximately 3,000, which included some Army light artillery units, coast defense weapons, Filipino Army Air Corps personnel as infantry, remnants of other Army units from Bataan and 700 Bluejackets. Although exposed to many and repeated bombing and strafing attacks, and terrific artillery bombardments, Colonel Howard displayed outstanding qualities of courage, leadership and efficiency, by maintaining his force at the peak of battle efficiency under most difficult and hazardous conditions. His service at all times was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

*HOWARD, STANLEY L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Stanley L. Howard (511096), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas, on 16 June 1944. Covering the position of a friendly machine gun located at a strategic point in our front lines, Private First Class Howard fought with resolute skill during a series of vigorous night counterattacks initiated by the Japanese. When the enemy ruthlessly attempted to force a break in our lines and concentrated shattering mortar, machine-gun and artillery fire on his gun emplacement, scoring hits which knocked out the entire gun crew, he fearlessly exposed himself to the terrific volleys from all directions to take position at the vital weapon. Quickly removing the casualties from his immediate area, he manned the installation with determined aggressiveness and, pouring a steady stream of devastating gunfire on the advancing Japanese forces, succeeded in holding them off until replacements were available to man the position. By his resolute initiative, gallant fortitude and great personal valor, Private First Class Howard assisted materially in repelling the enemy attack, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 1503 (March 1, 1945)
Born: at Waterloo, Iowa
Home Town: Waterloo, Iowa

HOWELL, DONALD S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald S. Howell (529977), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gunner of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 4 March 1945. While engaged in an attack against well-entrenched enemy forces, Private First Class Howell found himself the sole survivor of his machine-gun squad. When extremely heavy machine-gun and mortar fire immobilized his platoon, he located a point well forward of his present position from which to deliver more effective fire and assist his platoon in gaining fire superiority. Picking up his machine gun, tripod and box of ammunition, he boldly ran forward thirty yards to the new position and, placing his gun into action, fired into the flank of the Japanese emplacements. By his skill, aggressive fighting spirit and courage in remaining at his position, Private First Class Howell aided his platoon in regaining the initiative in the attack, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 43156 (October 12, 1948)
Born: at Washington Township, Ohio
Home Town: Celena, Ohio

HUDDLESTON, VIRGIL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Virgil Huddleston (301109), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, Second Separate Engineer Battalion, Third Amphibious Corps, Fleet Marine Force, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 22 July 1944. With an enemy mortar position supporting a strong counterattack against his battalion. Private First Class Huddleston volunteered to locate the emplacements and, advancing alone, killed an enemy soldier after the man had thrown a grenade which damaged his rifle. Then, continuing his mission, unarmed except for grenades, he located the hostile position. After passing his information and learning that a detail would attack the emplacement on the right flank, he crawled directly forward across open ground on the left, drawing enemy fire, and covered the mortar with his grenades while the attack developed on the right. His gallant fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 21393 (SofN Signed November 20, 1947)
Born: at Aniston, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Toledo, Ohio

HUDSON, LEWIS C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lewis C. Hudson (0-4641), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 19 and 20 February 1945. Landing on D-Day in the face of intense hostile fire, Lieutenant Colonel Hudson continuously exposed himself in the forward areas of the beachhead to encourage and direct his subordinates in the attack. By his personal example of fearlessness, he inspired his men to move forward in the attack despite heavy mortar, artillery, machine-gun and rifle fire, and to seize its sector of the initial beachhead, which consisted of the high ground adjacent to an airfield and a considerable area of a heavily fortified cliff line. On 20 February, when his battalion was subsequently pinned down, Lieutenant Colonel Hudson repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to supervise and coordinate the attack. Although suffering painful wounds, he refused medical aid until all other casualties had been given treatment, continuing to supervise the attack until replaced by a new Battalion Commander. His leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 41268 (November 20, 1947)
Born: July 29, 1910 at Memphis, Tennessee
Home Town: White Haven, Tennessee

*HUDSPETH, DANIEL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Daniel W. Hudspeth (294194), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company C, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 and 14 September 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

HUGHES, STANLEY S.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Stanley S. Hughes (0-12654), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of a machine gun platoon attached to a company of the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on 4 January 1944. When the advance of his company was stopped on the banks of a stream by a withering hail of enemy machine-gun fire from the opposite side which killed the leaders of both assault platoons and inflicted heavy casualties, First Lieutenant Hughes unhesitatingly exposed himself to the relentless hostile fire and, rallying the remnants of the platoons, courageously led them across the stream where they remained isolated in a precarious position. He then braved the enemy fire alone to re-cross the stream in an attempt to bring up reinforcements but, finding none available, rejoined his men, carrying them food. By his valiant leadership, First Lieutenant Hughes inspired his men to tremendous effort and enabled them to provide effective cover for other units subsequently making the hazardous crossing. His selfless courage and indomitable fighting spirit contributed materially to the complete destruction of the enemy defenses and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0689 (CofN Signed September 14, 1944)
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (Vietnam)
*HULL, DONALD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Donald L. Hull (298089), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 26 February to 3 March 1945. When his company's two remaining officers became casualties during an intensive drive against heavily fortified enemy strong points, Sergeant Hull immediately assumed command of the front line elements and continued to press the attack. With one of his platoons suffering heavy casualties and the advance held up by fire emanating from emplaced hostile machine guns, he boldly proceeded to the stricken platoon under the enemy's shattering barrage, remaining steadfast in his exposed position and thereby enable the platoon to continue the devastating attack. Stouthearted and indomitable in the face of overpowering odds, he constantly exerted himself to the limit of his endurance, continuing to wage battle with unrelenting fury until fatally struck down by the enemy on 3 March. A forceful and inspiring leader, Sergeant Hull, by his daring initiative, valiant fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty, contributed materially to the success of our operations against the Japanese on this vital stronghold and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 31851 (July 12, 1945)
Born: at Minneapolis, Minnesota
Home Town: Batonville, Washington

HUMBERD, WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Humberd (0-6025), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Section Leader and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Leading his section in a dauntless and aggressive assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Captain Humberd shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento XI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
Born: at St. Joseph, Missouri
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

HUND, ROBERT J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert J. Hund (458775), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 17 June 1944. Armed with a bazooka during an intense hostile counterattack against our tanks in the hours before dawn, Private First Class Hund worked his way from his position into a front line area to assist in repelling the assault, scoring direct hits on a Japanese tank with his accurate gunfire. Although subjected to a continuous barrage from hostile machine guns, he courageously crawled into an open field to secure a better firing position and, advancing against an approaching tank, registered several well-placed rounds. While preparing to turn his weapon on a third tank which was moving into the area, he suffered severe wounds. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6112
Born: at Mascoutah, Illinois
Home Town: Mascoutah, Illinois

*HUNNIFORD, WILLIAM J., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William J. Hunniford, Jr. (323522), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty 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.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 004199 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at Pockville, Connecticut
Home Town: Pockville, Connecticut

HUNT, GEORGE P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George P. Hunt (0-8763), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company K, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on enemy-held Peleliu, Palau Islands, from 15 to 17 September 1944. A bold and aggressive leader, Captain Hunt led his men in a daring assault against the enemy who were firing from concrete pillboxes on a coral point. Knowing the great danger the seizure of the point would incur, but realizing the immediate necessity for its capture, he quickly and skillfully maneuvered his company and, with two platoons, captured the point after a fierce struggle during which five hostile concrete pillboxes, numerous coral pillboxes and lighter emplacements were destroyed and over one hundred of the enemy were killed. Isolated from the rest of his Battalion for a period of twenty-six hours with only thirty-four men remaining, Captain Hunt expertly organized a defensive perimeter and, successfully defending his position against three hostile counterattacks, repulsed all three of them and annihilated four hundred and twenty-two Japanese. By his outstanding leadership and cool judgment in the face of grave danger, Captain Hunt contributed materially to the success of our forces during this critical period, and his gallant conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 00597
Born: at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Havenford, Pennsylvania

HUNT, WILFRED A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wilfred A. Hunt (290821), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the landing assault and seizure of enemy Japanese-held Tulagi Island, British Solomon Islands, on 7 August 1942. 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 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

HUNTER, JAMES B., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James B. Hunter, Jr. (0-32913), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, first Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 16 September 1944. With only two-thirds of his command left after a day of heavy fighting, Second Lieutenant Hunter reorganized his men and continued the assault across an airport where, inspired by his daring leadership, the platoon succeeded in destroying three hostile positions which were holding up the advance of the company, and in inflicting heavy casualties on the Japanese. Although painfully wounded upon entering the barracks area north of the airport, he crawled forward to a hostile pillbox which was holding up the advance of his company, threw several grenades and killed six of the enemy before he became unconscious from loss of blood. By his cool courage and aggressive fighting spirit, Second Lieutenant Hunter contributed to the success of his Battalion's advance, and his valiant devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 00597
Born: at Charlotte, North Carolina
Home Town: Charlotte, North Carolina

HUNTINGTON, KENNETH E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Kenneth E. Huntington (0-31342), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron ONE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-112), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in aerial combat against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet in the East China Sea, on 7 April 1945. Joining torpedo planes in a co-ordinate attack on the enemy surface force, Second Lieutenant Huntington dived perilously low over the target in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire to launch his bomb on a hostile cruiser's forward turret and, succeeding in silencing its guns, contributed materially to the subsequent sinking of the Japanese vessel. His outstanding airmanship and devotion to the fulfillment of a hazardous mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0592
Born: at Morland, Kansas
Home Town: Morland, Kansas

HURST, EDWARD H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward H. Hurst (0-5854), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 18 May 1945. While directing his battalion's assault against the heavily-defended Wana Ridge, Lieutenant Colonel Hurst occupied a forward observation post which was swept by intense hostile small-arms fire and mortar concentrations. Observing that platoons of the assault company were being subjected to devastating enemy fire, he courageously moved forward from his post to the company and, in the face of heavy Japanese mortar and small-arms fire, personally directed the assault on the desperately defended crest of the ridge. While returning to his observation post after his troops had gained a foothold on the ridge, Lieutenant Colonel Hurst personally assisted in the evacuation of a wounded man over a path swept by hostile small-arms fire. His bravery, able leadership, and gallant fighting spirit throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 65541 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Fort Valley, Georgia
Home Town: Perry, Georgia

*HUSZARIK, JOSEPH, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph Huszarik, Jr. (461100), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Fourteenth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan Island in the Marianas on 15 June 1944. The first communication personnel in the wire section to arrive at headquarters in this area, Corporal Huszarik and his wire team immediately established communication lines to two battalions despite heavy enemy fire on the beaches and returned without incident to their unit. When a break was reported in one of the lines, Corporal Huszarik volunteered to locate and repair the damage and, leading his men through the enemy's terrific artillery and mortar fire with courageous determination, succeeded in making the vital repairs. Caught in a Japanese artillery concentration and mortally wounded while returning to his unit, Corporal Huszarik, by his fearless initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, had contributed essentially to the ultimate capture of this important enemy stronghold, 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.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 11707 (January 11, 1945)
Born: at Cleveland, Ohio
Home Town: Cleveland, Ohio

*HYLAND, GEORGE B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George B. Hyland (275640), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 2 March 1945. Acting on his own initiative when a platoon was pinned down by hostile machine-gun fire and the leader wounded, Gunnery Sergeant Hyland boldly raced through enemy fire lanes to assume command of this unit. Although severely wounded twice on the previous day and seriously wounded again in the abdomen and back during this action, he courageously pressed on in the face of continuous hostile fire. Leading his platoon forward in a determined attack, he effectively directed his men in overrunning and occupying the Japanese positions before he was evacuated. His courageous leadership, initiative and heroic devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on Gunnery Sergeant Hyland and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 56773 (December 10, 1948)
Born: at Stamford, Connecticut
Home Town: Lomita, California

*JABOUR, THOMAS E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas E. Jabour (519489), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the First Battalion, Eighteenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas, on 10 July 1944. Warned of the impossibility of approaching a strongly fortified Japanese cave position when an assault executed by our tanks and half-tracks failed to dislodge the enemy force, Private First Class Jabour unhesitatingly advance din a determined effort to destroy the obstinately resisting troops and, despite the great risk involved, boldly hurled powerful demolition charges into the cave and completely annihilated the hostile strong point. Instantly killed while attempting to neutralize the intense fire from another strategic enemy position, Private First Class Jabour, by his indomitable fighting spirit, aggressive action and great personal valor, assisted materially in freeing an entire sector from overwhelming enemy gunfire and in forwarding the advance of our forces in this area. His unwavering devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon Private First Class Jabour and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 1758 (March 1, 1945)
Born: at Davenport, Iowa
Home Town: Davenport, Iowa

JACOBS, WHITNEY W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Whitney W. Jacobs (348729), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gunner of the Eleventh Machine Gun Squad, Company H, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese armed forces at the Tenaru River, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 21 August 1942. Lacking the protection of riflemen, Private Jacobs' machine gun squad was forced to tear down its frontal protection to meet the oncoming strong Japanese landing force. In spite of tremendous difficulties, the enemy attack was met and repulsed by fierce and determined fighting. Private Jacobs displayed conspicuous gallantry and fortitude throughout the engagement and contributed largely to the defeat of the enemy. His action at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD 1942, Serial 18 (SofN Signed March 18, 1943)
Born: at Framingham, Massachusetts
Home Town: Fayville, Massachusetts

JAMISON, ROBERT J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert J. Jamison (320034), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty 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

JANIC, MICHAEL M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Michael M. Janic (435835), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Scout in the Intelligence Section of the Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 27 July 1944. When a detachment from his battalion suffered numerous casualties from an enemy ambush, Corporal Janic received permission to leave his regular post and immediately proceeded to the area to investigate the situation and render all possible aid. Hearing the cries of two seriously wounded men lying in a draw, he went to their aid and, undaunted by intense direct hostile machine-gun and rifle fire, succeeded in carrying the two casualties to a place of comparative safety, annihilating several Japanese along the way who attempted to intercept him. By his courage and concern for the welfare of his comrades, Corporal Janic was responsible for saving the lives of the two wounded men, and his daring initiative was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8584 (SofN Signed November 20, 1947)
Born: at Wall, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Oakland, California

JARVIS, MELVIN L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Melvin L. Jarvis (0-25723), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as a Pilot of a fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWENTY-TWO (VMF-322), Marine Air Group THIRTY-THREE (MAG-33), FOURTH Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat during the assault on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 14 May 1945. While flying on a defensive patrol over friendly shipping, First Lieutenant Jarvis observed an enemy suicide plane making a determined attack on a destroyer. Braving the intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire from the friendly vessel, he dived to engage the hostile plane, shooting it down within a short distance of the vessel. By his initiative, conspicuous gallantry and courageous devotion to duty, he saved the ship from serous damage and probable sinking, and his intrepid spirit upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, Amphibious Forces, Pacific: Serial 00585 (SofN Signed November 14, 1947)
Born: at Larned, Kansas
Home Town: Salina, Kansas

*JEANES, CHARLES OLIVER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles Oliver Jeanes (488463), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a rifleman of Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on 6 January 1944. Undeterred by rain, dense jungle undergrowth and unfamiliar terrain, Private First class Jeanes bravely advanced against the enemy during an attack on a heavily fortified roadblock flanked on one side by a swamp and on the other side by the sea, and prevented the Japanese from throwing mines at the tanks. When one of our tanks became bogged down in the mud and was menaced by mines thrown by the Japanese on the left flank, Private First Class Jeanes quickly moved to the side of the stranded vehicle and opened deadly rifle fire on the enemy, at the same time attempting to catch the mines before they could damage or destroy the tank. Although instantly killed by an exploding mine while engaged in this hazardous undertaking, Private First Class Jeanes, by his cool courage, spirit of self-sacrifice and unwavering devotion to duty, had contributed materially to the success of the attack, and his conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0940
Born: at McKinney, Texas
Home Town: Denton, Texas

JENDESKI, VINCENT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Vincent Jendeski (282755), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader of Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 16 September 1944. With his squad pinned down by intense machine-gun fire from enemy-held pillboxes emplaced in extremely hazardous terrain, Sergeant Jendeski observed that one pillbox on his left flank was particularly endangering his squad and, ordering his men to direct heavy counter-fire against the hostile emplacement, led a fire team around the blind side of the pillbox. Forced to close in to the side of the enemy emplacement for protection from increased fire from another direction, he fearlessly exposed himself to throw a hand grenade into the opening of the pillbox, preparing his men to rush in immediately following its explosion. When the grenade was hurled back by the enemy into the midst of his party, Sergeant Jendeski immediately seized it and, although severely wounded in the hand when it exploded as he attempted to hurl it out of range, he undoubtedly save the other men of his group from probable injury or death. His initiative, gallant courage and devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8584 (SofN Signed November 20, 1947)
Born: at Braddock, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Associated, California

JENSEN, ALVIN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Alvin J. Jensen (0-27119), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED FOURTEEN (VMF-214), Marine Air Group ELEVEN (MAG-11), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area from 15 July 1943 to 1 September 1943. In addition to participation in numerous strikes against hostile shipping and airfield installations, Second Lieutenant Jensen frequently observed and reported positions of enemy troops concentrations. Overwhelmed by Japanese fighters while escorting a photographic mission over the Shortland Islands, he personally destroyed three planes and assisted in repelling the others. Later, as leader of a bomber cover, he shot down one Zero in flames and then, with all but one gun jammed, persistently remained in the fight until hostile interception was completely routed. On another occasion, when adverse weather turned back the remainder of his division, he continued along, diving through a virtual hail of Japanese fire to strafe and explode sixteen bombers and eight fighters on Kahili airfield. His relentless fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 002334 (SofN Signed April 19, 1944)
Born: June 23, 1920 at Clemson, South Carolina
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

JERUE, GEORGE EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Edward Jerue (0-15495), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Leader of a Tank Platoon of the First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 15 September 1944. When the command tank in which he was leading his platoon across a section of beach received a hit from a concealed enemy 75- mm. field gun, First Lieutenant Jerue remained exposed to heavy enemy mortar fire while directing an advance of about three hundred yards along the mine-strewn beach to enable his lead tank to open fire and destroy the enemy gun and crew. Then detecting the location of another well-concealed enemy machine gun which had shifted its fire from the infantry to the tanks, he made his way to another tank about twenty yards distant and, after climbing upon the outside of the turret and manning a machine gun, remained exposed while directing the tank toward the enemy emplacement and indicating with his tracers the location of the target to his turret gunner. His cool courage, gallant fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6683 (SofN Signed December 9, 1947)
Born: at Mt. Kisko, New Jersey
Home Town: Mt. Kisko, New Jersey

JOHNSMILLER, ROBERT W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert W. Johnsmiller (387600), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader in Company I, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Leading his men over the fire-swept sea wall bordering the beach, Corporal Johnsmiller sustained a serious eye wound and, undaunted by the severe pain, led his squad, despite heavy enemy machine-gun and rifle fire, in carrying out an aggressive attack against the enemy and in destroying several hostile pillboxes continuing his efforts until persuaded to withdraw for medical treatment. By his indomitable fighting spirit, Corporal Johnsmiller contributed materially to the success of our operations against this heavily fortified Japanese stronghold, and his devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 01489 (SofN Signed February 17, 1948)
Born: May 11, 1922 at Detroit, Michigan
Home Town: Ann Arbor, Michigan

*JOHNSON, CHANDLER W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Chandler W. Johnson (0-4434), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 2 March 1945. Landing his force in the wake of an assault battalion on D-Day, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson advanced his men against savage hostile resistance as they executed a difficult turning maneuver to protect the left flank of assault troops moving across the island and, completing this initial mission in a minimum of time, forged steadily onward to penetrate the intricate network of fortifications circling the base of Mount Suribachi. Scaling the steep, gun-studded face of the mountain, he maintained close control of operations, blasting the defending garrisons from their deeply-entrenched positions and seizing the volcanic stronghold with its commanding gun batteries on D-plus-4. With Mount Suribachi secured, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson waged a relentless drive northward toward the sea, smashing through seemingly impregnable Japanese defenses, fighting the enemy with indomitable force and annihilating them with inexorable determination. Gaining the rugged, difficult terrain north of Hill 362 on D-plus-11, he discovered that strongly fortified, well-concealed Japanese forces were inflicting heavy casualties on his forward companies. Instantly proceeding to the front lines, he fearlessly made his way among the besieged units, ordering corrective measures, rallying and reorganizing his stout-hearted fighters for renewed assault. Although instantly killed by a bursting mortar shell as he moved from the right assault company to the adjacent company's observation post, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson, by his outstanding valor, dynamic energies and skilled combat tactics in the face of tremendous odds, had inspired his men to heroic effort throughout twelve days of fierce conflict, thereby contributing essentially to the ultimate capture of this vital Japanese outpost. His brilliant leadership and astute military acumen throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 35137 (September 13, 1945)
Born: at Fort Dodge, Iowa
Home Town: Highland Park, Illinois

JOHNSON, CHARLES E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles E. Johnson (853722), 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, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 98301
Born: at Girard, Ohio
Home Town: Youngstown, Ohio

*JOHNSON, DONALD W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Donald W. Johnson (261631), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a member of the First Battalion, Twelfth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Cape Torokina Area, Bougainville Island, British Solomon Islands, on 12 and 13 November 1943. Seriously wounded when he was ambushed by a Japanese outpost during a routine patrol, Corporal Johnson fearlessly engaged the enemy in combat and after killing one member of the hostile force promptly plotted the location of the ambush on an artillery firing chart so that accurate fire could be brought to bear on the position. Courageously leading a patrol of the Twenty-First Marines to his hostile entrenchment, Corporal Johnson established contact with the enemy and while participating in the ensuing action was mortally wounded. His exceptional fortitude and conspicuous 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.
Board Serial: 6725 (February 16, 1944)
Born: at Portland, Oregon
Home Town: Portland, Oregon

JOHNSON, JOHN G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John G. Johnson (0-7095), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 30 May 1945. During the assault on Radio Hill, east of Naha, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson assumed command of the battalion after the Commanding Officer had been killed and proceeded immediately from his Command Post to the front lines under heavy fire. With his troops suffering severe casualties due to heavy enemy fire to the front and from caves on the right, he quickly reorganized his assault elements and personally directed their attack on the left, reaching the Battalion's objective by darkness. When his position was threatened by the presence of the remaining enemy troops in the caves to the right, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson again reorganized his exhausted men and directed them in a hand-to-hand fight against the Japanese, thereby securing his position and accounting for eighty-three additional enemy dead. His inspiring leadership and courage throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 86000
Born: at Sulton, West Virginia
Home Town: Sulton, West Virginia

*JOHNSON, ROY W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Roy W. Johnson (335908), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader in Company I, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Detecting an imbedded, well-camouflaged enemy tank obstructing the advance of his squad and inflicting heavy casualties on his company, Sergeant Johnson valiantly risked his life in an effort to neutralize the hostile weapons. Crawling through withering fire, he successfully gained the turret and, after dropping a grenade within the enclosure, closed the hatch and sat on it until the ensuing explosion put the tank out of action. His brilliant initiative, daring aggressiveness and inspiring devotion to duty in the face of grave peril enabled our forces to move forward and deliver a devastating blow to opposing forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial: 917 (March 24, 1944)
Born: at St. Paul, Minnesota
Home Town: Hollywood, California

JOHNSON, WALLACE W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wallace W. Johnson (471138), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. Realizing the seriousness of the situation when our troops were pinned down by intense hostile machine-gun fire, Corporal Johnson courageously made a reconnaissance one hundred yards into enemy-held territory to locate Japanese machine-gun and mortar emplacements. Returning to friendly lines, he led our tanks to positions twenty-five yards from the enemy installations and, taking a position at the rear of his platoon leader's tank, braved extremely heavy mortar, hand grenade and rifle fire to direct the tanks in firing on the positions. On many occasions, he was forced to throw back into the enemy entrenchments the grenades which had been hurled close to his exposed position. By his courageous action, he was in large measure instrumental in the destruction of the Japanese emplacements, thereby enabling our forces to advance. Corporal Johnson's initiative, gallant fighting spirit and aggressiveness were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 42744
Born: at Toccoa, Georgia
Home Town: Asheville, North Carolina

JOHNSTON, SAMUEL D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Samuel D. Johnston (435330), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Tank Platoon Leader of Company C, Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 16 March 1945. Forcing his way through very difficult terrain on 23 February, Gunnery Sergeant Johnston reached a point where he could fire into Japanese pillboxes and, after exhausting his ammunition, left his tank in the face of small-arms and anti-tank fire to ride on the outside of a second tank and direct its guns against the remaining pillboxes. Taking command of a tank dozer on 8 March, he cleared a road through an enemy mine field for four hundred yards despite hostile fire and, on 14 March, constructed a road down a rocky and extremely steep slope with another dozer, thereby enabling tanks to clear an area that had halted our advance. On the same day, he attacked a road block and, despite enemy hand-thrown charges, grenades and a blinding smoke screen, succeeded in neutralizing the Japanese personnel and reducing the block. His courage, aggressive fighting spirit and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Gunnery Sergeant Johnston and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 44534
Born: at Gray, Oklahoma
Home Town: Gray, Oklahoma

*JONES, HAROLD B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Harold B. Jones (478403), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Company Machine Gunner serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 24 February 1945. With his company pinned down and suffering heavy casualties under shattering hostile machine-gun fire, during an attack against well-concealed and deeply entrenched enemy emplacements, Private Jones voluntarily braved a withering barrage in a valiant attempt to wipe out the resistance. Boldly advancing alone to an area near the enemy guns and 100 yards forward of his company lines, he poured a steady stream of machine-gun fire into the entrenchments to silence two machine guns and at the same time designated other targets for his company weapons by the sustained, accurate use of tracer bullets. Although seriously wounded in the leg, he called for additional ammunition and grenades and gallantly continued to pit his devastating fire against the Japanese while his company consolidated for the night. With his ammunition again exhausted and the enemy rapidly closing to grenade range, he dauntlessly fought on, repeatedly seizing the deadly missiles and returning them until he was again severely wounded when one of the grenades exploded close by. Suffering severe pain and weak from loss of blood, he valiantly left his position in the foxhole and crawled back to his own lines under cover of darkness to make a complete report to his company commander on the location of the remaining hostile strong points, later succumbing to his wounds. By his outstanding fortitude, unwavering perseverance and great personal valor, maintained in the face of almost certain death, Private Jones contributed to the saving of many lives and to the success of his company's mission. His stout- hearted devotion to duty throughout reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 32970 (August 15, 1945)
Born: at Chomrock, Texas
Home Town: Richmond, California

JONES, LOUIS R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Louis R. Jones (0-486), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands from 15 June to 2 August 1944. Landing on both islands in the initial assaults on vital sectors, Colonel Jones capably led his Regiment and, defying heavy artillery, machine-gun and mortar fire, seized beachheads and held them tenaciously against repeated counterattacks until the full force of the supporting elements could be landed. Resourceful in battle exigencies and analyzing enemy tactics, he coordinated the efforts of the units under his command and led his Regiment in unrelenting attacks against the Japanese. Seizing assigned objectives despite fanatic resistance and annihilating thousands of the enemy, he was continually in the field throughout the operation, visiting his front line units and coordinating their efforts. His inspiring leadership, professional ability and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Colonel Jones and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 07434
Born: at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

JONES, ROBERT EARL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Earl Jones (328243), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a member of a Point Platoon of Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at cape Gloucester, New Britain, on 30 December 1943. When the advance of his platoon was stopped by intense fire from an enemy pillbox, Private Jones, accompanied by another member of his squad, unhesitatingly rushed the pillbox and, with accurate fire and hand grenades, destroyed the machine gun and thirteen of the enemy. Despite the fact that seven of his squad were casualties, he continued moving forward under the withering hail of Japanese fire, killing at least five more of the hostile forces before he was severely wounded in the leg. Unable to move when the enemy counterattacked, Private Jones feigned death while a Japanese kicked him and took his canteen, continuing his ruse until the hostile troops were driven back across him when he quickly seized a discarded rifle and killed another of the enemy. Private Jones' courageous initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0689
Born: at Orange, California
Home Town: Lemon Grove, California

JONES, WILLIAM KENEFICK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Kenefick Jones (0-5747), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands, from 15 June to 1 August 1944. When companies under his command landed out of position on three separate beaches, Lieutenant Colonel Jones braved heavy enemy mortar, artillery and small-arms fire to proceed from unit to unit and reorganize and direct their disposition in seizing the designated target. Under his competent leadership, the Battalion repeatedly turned back Japanese counterattacks during the ensuing two days and, on the night of 16 June, bore the brunt of a hostile tank attack in which twenty-four Japanese tanks were destroyed. His gallantry under fire and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Colonel Jones and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8631
Born: October 23, 1916 at Joplin, Missouri
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

*JORDAN, DONALD R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Donald R. Jordan (489161), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 16 June 1944. Valiantly exposing himself to intense hostile fire in order to wipe out a group of Japanese troops attempting to set up a machine gun in a position exceedingly dangerous to his company during a vicious enemy attack, Private First Class Jordan immediately stood upright with his machine gun when he was unable to gain a field of fire and, despite the extreme danger to himself, calmly and skillfully directed accurate fire on the emplacement, destroying the entire crew before they could open fire on our forces. With succeeding enemy troops still advancing against our position, he fearlessly remained standing and continued firing until he was fatally struck down by hostile shellfire. By his daring initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor, Private First Class Jordan contributed immeasurably to the success of our forces in repulsing the bitter Japanese onslaughts, and his self-sacrificing devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 1176 (February 22, 1945)
Born: at Corrizozo, New Mexico
Home Town: Houston, Texas

*JOVANOVICH, GEORGE C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George C. Jovanovich (0-36144), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while attached to Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marine Regiment, FIFTH Marine Division, during initial assault operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. Shrewdly gauging the tactical situation when his company's advance was held up by the concentrated fire of a heavily fortified Japanese blockhouse, Second Lieutenant Jovanovich boldly defied the blasting artillery and mortar bombardments behind laid down with rapidly increasing intensity to move up to a position directly on top of the blockhouse where he calmly deliberated preparations for its destruction. Calling for a flamethrower, he took station at the edge of the fortification and directed the flames inside. Instantly taken under fire by a number of supporting enemy positions, he remained steadfast and undaunted when his flame-throwing tactics failed in full accomplishment of the objective and, demonstrating cool presence of mind and expert professional skill despite the smashing fury of exploding shells and deadly sniper fire which blanketed his dangerously exposed position, carefully prepared, placed and detonated a powerful demolitions charge, thereby effecting the complete destruction of the hostile strong point. By his outstanding valor, fearless initiative and indomitable determination during a critical situation, Second Lieutenant Jovanovich contributed materially to the success of his division's initial operations against this vital outpost of the Japanese Empire and his unwavering devotion to duty in the face of savage opposition upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 35772 (August 20, 1946)
Born: December 22, 1919 at Ambridge, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Ambridge, Pennsylvania

JULIAN, JESSE P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jesse P. Julian (0-20726), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Rifle Platoon Leader of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. When a surprise enemy attack forced the leading elements of his company to withdraw under heavy machine-gun fire, First Lieutenant Julian immediately took control of the retreating men and, acting on his own initiative, personally led his platoon in a counterattack to regain and hold the ground previously won. Following this action, he skillfully led a patrol up a cliff and on to a ridge line which had been untenable throughout the entire day. Thoroughly reconnoitering the ground in the face of constant Japanese sniper fire, he then established contact with the unit on the right and safely led his patrol back over the ridge line. After securing more men, he returned to the cliff and established a defense, thereby preventing the enemy's mass infiltration into the lines throughout the night. By his unfaltering courage, presence of mind and skillful leadership under fire, First Lieutenant Julian served as a constant inspiration to the men in his company and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 45784
Born: at Millboro, North Carolina
Home Town: Franklinville, North Carolina

JURGENS, CEDRICK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Cedrick Jurgens (343306), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gunner in a Platoon of Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 18 September 1944. Due to dense undergrowth, rough terrain and the intense combat activity in the area, a platoon of our tanks leading an advance mistook Private First Class Jurgens' company for the enemy and began to deliver heavy fire which inflicted casualties and threatened the annihilation of his platoon. While the Platoon Leader was attempting to move his men to a position of comparative safety, Private First Class Jurgens voluntarily and courageously dashed forward in the face of the intense machine-gun and rifle fire and bravely standing in an upright position despite the rain of fire, signaled the tanks. Although wounded while exposing himself, he succeeded in stopping the fire of the armored vehicles and thereby saved the lives of many members of the platoon. By his daring initiative, fortitude and unselfish devotion to duty in the face of almost certain death, Private First Class Jurgens upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 00435
Born: at Knoxville, Tennessee
Home Town: Cobbins, Tennessee

JUSTICE, FRANK W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank W. Justice (295153), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Platoon Leader of Company A, First Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Tinian, Marianas Islands, 31 July 1944. When his platoon was pinned down by heavy machine-gun and rifle fire, Platoon Sergeant Justice unhesitatingly went forward under intense enemy fire, killing two Japanese snipers as he advanced. Locating the hostile machine gun, he made his way to its flank and shot the enemy machine gunner. By his courage and initiative, he enabled his platoon to advance and occupy the last high ground to be taken on this strategic island. His intrepid spirit and zealous devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6887 (SofN Signed January 20, 1948)
Born: at McAlester, Oklahoma
Home Town: Hemet, California

*KACHINSKI, ROLAND F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Roland F. Kachinski (256111), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Parachute Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, during the assault on enemy Japanese forces at Gavutu, Solomon Islands, on 7 August 1942. When the right flank of Company A was subjected to withering fire from a hostile machine gun, Platoon Sergeant Kachinski, on his own courageous initiative, launched a lone attack against the enemy. Effectively throwing grenades and engaging in perilous hand-to-hand combat, he fought with such tenacious determination and fearless aggressiveness that he was able to destroy the gun position before receiving fatal wounds. Platoon Sergeant Kachinski's relentless fighting spirit and unswerving 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, Commander, South Pacific: Serial 1113 (SofN Signed December 4, 1943)
Born: at DeKalb, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

KAHN, LAUREN HERMAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lauren Herman Kahn (880834), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 17 June 1944. During an intense enemy counterattack, Private First Class Kahn scored hits on two Japanese tanks with his antitank rocket launcher and succeeded in putting both vehicles out of action. With his supply of ammunition exhausted and a third enemy tank advancing upon him, he fearlessly exposed himself to intense hostile fire to climb upon the oncoming tank and drop two hand grenades into the turret, annihilating the entire tank crew and rendering the tank inoperable. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Kahn and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8418 (SofN Signed January 28, 1948)
Born: at Rochester, Minnesota
Home Town: Chatfield, Minnesota

*KAIL, WILLIAM E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William E. Kail (940038), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Wireman, serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 15 March 1945. After successfully completing his assigned task of laying telephone lines to a Company Command Post, Private First Class Kail, seeing a Marine flame thrower struck down by relentless Japanese machine-gun fire forward of the Command Post, valiantly worked his way over gutted earth under treacherous hostile sniper fire to aid the stranded man. While at his comrade's side, Private First Class Kail was suddenly pinned down by bursting machine-gun fire from a nearby enemy-held mound and, although painfully wounded and repeatedly knocked to the ground by the murderous barrage, unflinchingly rose and met the opposition with grenades and gunfire. After emptying his own carbine into the mound, he resolutely continued firing with the wounded Marine's rifle until he himself was mortally wounded. His inspiring actions, complete selflessness and unfailing devotion to duty enhanced the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 34985 (September 27, 1945)
Born: at Auburn, Indiana
Home Town: Auburn, Indiana

*KATSULIS, DEMOSTHENES V.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Demosthenes V. Katsulis (834165), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during combat against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 27 November 1943. With his rifle squad pinned down by hostile fire, Private First Class Katsulis unhesitatingly moved forward alone to an exposed area ahead of his position where several men lay wounded. Bravely attempting to silence Japanese snipers as he advanced, Private First Class Katsulis succeeded in rescuing his injured squad leader but, while carrying him back, was himself wounded by enemy fire. In spite of his own serious condition, he steadfastly refused to be evacuated until all the other men had been removed, and subsequently died from loss of blood. His great personal valor and unswerving loyalty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial: 2008 (May 16, 1944)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

KAY, WILLIS L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Willis L. Kay (0-16584), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Intelligence Officer of the Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, on 25 July 1944. After repeated attempts had failed to locate two enemy 75-mm. guns and four 90-mm. mortars blocking the Mt. Tenjo Road, First Lieutenant Kay was sent with a patrol to locate these by-passed weapons which were concealed in a commanding area of coral rock and underbrush. Undeterred by the extreme danger, he searched the area until the two 75-mm. guns opened fire, missing him by a few yards but revealing their positions. Aware of the exact location of the emplacements, he volunteered to take command of a detail of two tanks and fifteen infantrymen armed with flame throwers and bazookas to neutralize the positions. Leading the tanks into an advantageous position in the face of enemy hand-grenade and rifle fire which killed two and wounded five of his detail, he directed tank fire into hostile emplacements approximately twenty yards away and continually walked about in full view of the enemy in order to locate new targets. As a result of his aggressive and heroic actions, two 75-mm. guns were destroyed, forty-five Japanese were annihilated with the remainder driven from their positions leaving four 90-mm. mortars behind, and his Battalion was enabled to advance. His courageous initiative and gallant devotion to duty throughout this hazardous mission reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Kay and the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8583 (July 19, 1950)
Born: at Anderson County, South Carolina
Home Town: Pelzer, South Carolina

*KEANE, CHARLES P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles P. Keane (327892), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 15 March 1945. Ordered with his squad to attack deeply-entrenched enemy forces who were heavily armed with rifles, machine guns and grenades, Private Keane unhesitatingly took the initiative and, boldly charging the hostile position, single-handedly destroyed ten of the Japanese with grenades and rifle fire before he fell, mortally wounded. His unfaltering courage and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of tremendous odds reflect the highest credit upon Private Keane's and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 35670 (November 1, 1945)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Hoboken, New Jersey

KEELEY, EDWARD C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward C. Keeley (0-24789), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Division Leader and Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE (VMF-323), Marine Air Group THIRTY-THREE (MAG-33), FOURTH Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Ryukyu Islands, on 11 May 1945. Despite a dangerous decline of oil pressure, First Lieutenant Keeley led a section of a four-plane division in an attack on an enemy fighter sweeping in ahead of hostile bombers heading toward our shipping and, engaging the Japanese in fierce combat, sent him crashing into the sea. Climbing to a higher altitude, he sighted the formation of nine enemy fighter-bombers approaching our ships and, diving through the clouds, carried out three successive runs, delivering accurate gunfire to blast three of the bombers from the sky and contribute materially to the success of his division in destroying the remainder. His skill as an airman and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, Air Forces, Pacific: Serial 16704 (SofN Signed June 23, 1947)
Born: at Monterey, California
Home Town: Monterey, California

KEININGHAM, JACK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Keiningham (410715), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 16 June 1944. When a 37-mm. gun in front of our lines was silenced with the death or serious wounding of the last of its crew during a fierce enemy counterattack, Corporal Keiningham ran to his command post, obtained ammunition and, braving intense hostile fire, returned to the gun. While unfamiliar with that type of gun, he courageously manned it and fired eight rounds, destroying many of the enemy before receiving a wound which forced his subsequent evacuation. His courage, initiative and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Keiningham and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 22939
Born: at Putman, Texas
Home Town: Bellmead, Texas

*KEITH, WILLARD WOODWARD, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Willard Woodward Keith, Jr. (0-6950), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while commanding Company G, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the afternoon of 2 November 1942. During an offensive by the battalion in the Matanikau River Area, Captain Keith, with exceptional skill and inspiring courage, led a platoon against a hostile strong point made up of a single platoon reinforced with machine guns. Although the Japanese positions were firmly entrenched on commanding ground and concealed by heavy jungle growth, Captain Keith, recognizing the inability of our mortar and artillery fire to dislodge the enemy, initiated and led successive bayonet and hand grenade charges in the face of tremendous fire until the hostile group was annihilated and he himself was killed. His grim determination and aggressive 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.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 00232 (SofN Signed April 23, 1943)
Born: June 13, 1920 at Berkeley, California
Home Town: Berkeley, California

KELLEY, CLARENCE O.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clarence O. Kelley (854672), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the First Amphibian Tractor Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, as a Driver of an Amphibian Tractor equipped with a Flame Thrower, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, 17 September 1944. When his tractor caught fire due to malfunctioning of the flame thrower, Private First Class Kelley steadfastly fought the blaze until ordered to abandon the vehicle by his crew chief, after which he reported that his weapon and tractor were out of action and made his way back to the conflagration under intense mortar and sniper fire. Ignoring the flames and exploding ammunition, he drove the burning tractor to an area where the fire was extinguished. His gallant devotion to duty in the face of grave danger reflects the highest credit upon Private First Class Kelley and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 0522
Born: at Ennis, Montana
Home Town: Morris, Montana

*KELLEY, MAYNARD CARTER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Maynard Carter Kelley (0-29991), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Tower Control Duty Officer of Marine Fighting Squadron (Night) 533 (VMF-533(N)), attached to the Marine Air Base at Yontan, Okinawa, when airborne enemy Japanese troops effected a surprise landing at that field on 24 and 25 May 1945. On duty in the transmitter room at the base of the control tower when a hostile troop carrier glided in on the northeast runway, First Lieutenant Kelley immediately reported the incident to the Operations Officer, and then boarded a jeep and drove to the scene of the landing, where he remained despite the menace of exploding aircraft and the deadly fire of automatic weapons, knee mortars and hand grenades. Armed only with a service revolver as he coolly evaluated the critical situation, he succeeded in killing one of the marauding Japanese before he withdrew from the runway to the tower. Determined to halt the hostile invasion, he fearlessly exposed himself to a merciless concentration of fire to train a spotlight on the enemy aircraft and troops and, skillfully directing the small-arms fire of other Marines, continually harassed and ultimately frustrated all enemy attempts to reach and destroy our parked aircraft and vital field installations. Fatally wounded as he persevered in his courageous efforts, First Lieutenant Kelley, by his alert presence of mind, shrewd tactics and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of tremendous odds, had served as an inspiration to his fighting comrades and contributed immeasurably to the repulse of this abortive Japanese attack which resulted in the annihilation of approximately seventy-one of the enemy. His determined initiative and personal valor throughout sustained and enhanced the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 032767 (January 10, 1946)
Born: at Seattle, Washington
Home Town: Seattle, Washington

KELLOGG, FREDERICK A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frederick A. Kellogg (0-30384), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 25 February 1945. While his Company drove north along the west beach of the Island in a costly attempt to siege a well defended hostile position that had held up the advance for two days, Second Lieutenant Kellogg found himself the only remaining platoon leader in a disorganized Company. Fearlessly exposing himself to intense small-arms and mortar fire, he promptly reformed the shattered line. Then, leading a renewed attack, he personally directed the fire of the supporting tanks despite the necessity of exposing himself to the intense hostile fire. By his aggressive tactics, he inspired his Company to break through this strong line of enemy resistance and gain a position two hundred yards forward of the disorganized Company on the right. After setting up a defense to protect the open left flank on the beach, he directed the delivery of effective fire to effect the relief of the unit on the right. Launching a new attack, he led his Company in a relentless pursuit of the enemy for seven hundred yards, inflicting numerous casualties upon the Japanese and achieving a better defensive position for the night. His indomitable fighting spirit, gallant leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 101473
Born: at Towanda, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wyalusing, Pennsylvania

KELLY, DONALD J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald J. Kelly (552746), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rifleman of Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 14 May 1945. Rendered unconscious by the blast of a demolition charge and evacuated from his unit during his squad's advance on Sugar Loaf Hill, Private Kelly steadfastly refused further evacuation from the Battalion Aid Station and, later the same day, voluntarily returned to the lines. Unable to locate his former platoon, he attached himself to another platoon moving out in an assault on Sugar Loaf Hill and, observing a machine gunner fall on reaching the objective, rushed to the machine gun. Although he had no training in the operation of the gun, Private Kelly proceeded to put it into action and, when the platoon was forced to withdraw under intense enemy fire delivered by a numerically superior assaulting force, remained steadfast at the gun, covering the withdrawal and killing more than twenty of the Japanese. By his courage, initiative and aggressive fighting spirit during this action, Private Kelly upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 86492
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

*KELLY, EDWARD F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Edward F. Kelly (352917), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Leader of a Machine-Gun Squad serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, on the night of 25 - 26 July 1944. When the Japanese launched a fierce, determined Banzai charge using bayonets, hand grenades and small arms, Corporal Kelly, with his squad, occupied a hazardous position in his company's line and, despite the fanatical intensity of the hostile attack, courageously directed a stream of accurate, effective fire until he was seriously wounded in both legs and his machine gun put out of action. Steadfastly refusing evacuation, he administered first aid, pulled himself to a firing position and resumed control of his weapon, destroying fifteen of the enemy and greatly aiding in halting the attack before he was mortally wounded. Corporal Kelly's inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and valiant devotion to duty contributed materially to the security of a vital beachhead and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 004240 (January 4, 1945)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Midlothian, Illinois

*KELTON, C.J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to C.J. Kelton (870869), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Fifth Tank Battalion, Division Service Troops, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 22 February 1945. With his platoon command tank struck and set afire by hostile shellfire during a perilous advance northward against a fanatic, determined enemy, Private First Class Kelton promptly dismounted from his own vehicle and braved the enemy's shattering 47-mm. antitank, mortar and small-arms fire in a valiant attempt to rescue the entrapped crew. Boldly pressing forward under the withering barrage, he crossed the 25-yard open area and unhesitatingly entered the blazing tank and then, working tirelessly and with superb courage, personally extricated two of the three wounded men from the tank and carried them back to his own vehicle despite the incessant shellfire. By his daring initiative, outstanding fortitude and grave concern for the safety of others at great risk to his own life, Private First Class Kelton contributed to the saving of three fellow Marines who otherwise might have perished and his self-sacrificing efforts throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 32446 (July 12, 1945)
Born: at Kanima, Oklahoma
Home Town: Truscott, Texas

*KENNEDY, CHARLES R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles R. Kennedy (267247), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Twenty- Second Marines, Fifth Amphibious Corps, in combat against enemy Japanese forces on Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, 18 February 1944. Seriously wounded by fragments from a close mortar hit while advancing under the heavy fire of the Japanese opposing our landing, Platoon Sergeant Kennedy resolutely remained in action and, despite the many casualties and the confusion incident to a hazardous invasion, disregarded his own condition to reorganize his boat group and lead it inland. Although successful in this vital mission, he was killed by enemy fire a short time after landing. His courageous initiative, his fortitude and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of grave peril reflect the highest credit upon Platoon Sergeant Kennedy and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 9682 (November 27, 1944)
Born: at Groton, Massachusetts
Home Town: Mattapan, Massachusetts

KENYON, HOWARD N.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Howard N. Kenyon (0-3735), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 25 February 1945. Fully aware that strong hostile fortifications presented the grim threat of a disaster should our advance falter during an attack north of Motoyama Airfield, Colonel Kenyon bravely elected to lead his Regiment across the fire-swept runways of the airfield and, by inspiring his men with a zealous determination to carry through the advance, contributed materially to the successful prosecution of a critical attack against almost impregnable Japanese positions. After penetrating these hostile emplacements, he skillfully maneuvered his unit in a strategic cut through to the northern end of the Island in a forceful advance which proved to be a decisive factor in the defeat of the enemy on Iwo Jima. His outstanding leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 50938
Born: at Longwood, Oklahoma
Home Town: Longwood, Oklahoma

*KERNS, JOHN I.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John I. Kerns (348233), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a member of a volunteer boat crew in Company B, SECOND Marine Raider Battalion, during the Marine Raider Expedition against the Japanese-held island of Makin in the Gilbert Islands on 17 and 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

KETCHAM, WILLIAM T., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William T. Ketcham, Jr. (0-9679), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty- Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 24 February 1945. Although suffering from a bullet wound in the arm and a shrapnel wound in the leg which he received while directing an attack against a heavily fortified position, Captain Ketcham refused to be evacuated and, despite the shock and the loss of blood from his wounds, returned to his company and led another attack against this well-defended position. Moving to a rocky crest forward of his right flank platoon in the face of heavy mortar and small-arms fire, he directed accurate 60-mm. mortar and artillery fire on four pillboxes and, after destroying these, moved his company on to commanding ground, reorganized and successfully repulsed a counterattack of some twenty Japanese. His skill, initiative and courageous devotion to duty in the face of enemy fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 41635
Born: at Cedarhurst, Long Island, New York
Home Town: Cedarhurst, Long Island, New York

*KEY, EUGENE MORLAND
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Eugene Morland Key (0-7597), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the landing assault and seizure of enemy Japanese-held Tulagi Island, British Solomon Islands, on 7 August 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.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 909 (May 24, 1943)
Born: October 5, 1916 at Conroe, Texas
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

KIMMEL, CHARLES J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles J. Kimmel (0-8786), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while in command of the Third Platoon, Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces west of the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 2 November 1942. Grimly aware of the importance of dislodging the enemy from their positions before nightfall, and though momentarily stopped by terrifically heavy opposition during the advance, Second Lieutenant Kimmel encouraged and inspired his men to heights of tremendous endeavor. Valiantly leading the bayonet charge initiated by his command, he was mortally wounded during the fierce hand-to-hand struggle that ensued. As a result of his daring spirit and inspiring leadership, the enemy was completely routed and the company's objective attained. His actions at all times 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.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 648 (SofN Signed October 1, 1943)
Born: at Rushsylvania, Ohio
Home Town: Rushsylvania, Ohio

KINCAID, JOHN O., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John O. Kincaid, Jr. (347039), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on enemy-held Peleliu, Palau Islands, 18 September 1944. During the night of 18 September, Corporal Kincaid volunteered to occupy a sharp crest which afforded the only protection to his company's flank position on a ridge. Late that night, an enemy mortar crew emerged from a cave and attempted to set up their weapon. Corporal Kincaid succeeded in destroying the weapon and inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy with hand grenades and his sub-machine gun. Later on, enemy troops attempted to rush his position. Engaging the attackers in hand-to-hand combat, he, with the aid of his platoon leader, killed thirty of the Japanese. During the action he was wounded in the forehead by a ricocheting bullet while in the act of throwing a hand grenade, but for fifteen minutes more continued his fierce defense of the position. He left his post only when replaced and ordered to the rear. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 00497
Born: at Norristown, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Eggertsville, New York

KINGSLEY, LUKE A., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Luke A. Kingsley, Jr. (462788), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty 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.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 0295 (SofN Signed March 24, 1950)
Born: at Memphis, Tennessee
Home Town: Memphis, Tennessee

*KIRBY, EMMETT F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Emmett F. Kirby (458275), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Tank Crew Member serving with the Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, during the landing on Saipan Island, 15 June 1944. Volunteering to lead his tank from the coral reef through the lagoon to the beach, Private First Class Kirby courageously made his way in the face of terrific enemy fire until the water was too deep for him to walk. Unable to find a shallow path and aware that he was slowing the progress of the tank which was rapidly filling with water, he motioned the vehicle to proceed without him and, swimming the remaining distance of five hundred yards under persistent, accurate hostile fire, finally reached the cover of the tank where it had drowned out near the beach. Although wounded in the leg, he tenaciously continued on, sustained a second injury and still went forward, gaining the beach just as another burst of fire struck and mortally wounded him. Private First Class Kirby's inspiring conduct, indomitable fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty under extremely perilous conditions reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 10474 (December 14, 1944)
Born: at Roanoke, Alabama
Home Town: Roanoke, Alabama

KIZIRIAN, HARRY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harry Kizirian (942989), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 11 June 1945. Returning from an assigned mission of locating elements of a reserve platoon, Private First Class Kizirian observed a stretcher party of Marines pinned down and suffering casualties while attempting to evacuate the wounded of an adjacent unit. Determined to reach a more advantageous position to deliver accurate fire on the enemy, he unhesitatingly moved forward. Immediately exposed to additional hostile fire which wounded him in both legs and abdomen, he continued to drag himself forward by pressure of his elbows, alternately firing and advancing until he had killed all twelve of the Japanese in the emplacement. By his outstanding courage and aggressive fighting spirit, Private First Class Kizirian enabled the stretcher party to advance and evacuate the wounded. His gallant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 86000 (SofN Signed March 1, 1948)
Born: at Providence, Rhode Island
Home Town: Providence, Rhode Island

*KLATT, GEORGE S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George S. Klatt (222792), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as Gun Captain of a 1.1 inch mount aboard the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38) during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. Although severely wounded at the outset of the engagement, Platoon Sergeant Klatt, with cool courage and complete disregard for his own personal safety, effectively directed his men in the vital task of extinguishing fires and controlling damage. By his sturdy endurance and grim determination in the face of intense pain and waning strength, he inspired his men with an aggressive fighting spirit which contributed in a large measure to the victory achieved by our forces in this notable engagement. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
SPOT AWARD (November 1942)
Born: at Columbia, Missouri
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

KLINGMAN, ROBERT R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert R. Klingman (0-28160), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-312), Marine Air Group THIRTY-THREE (MAG-33), FOURTH Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Okinawa, Ryukyu islands, on 10 May 1945. Finding his guns jammed when he closed within firing range of an enemy reconnaissance plane during an extended pursuit at extremely high altitudes, First Lieutenant Klingman persisted in his attacks in the face of heavy fire from the Japanese tail gunner until the propeller of his plane severed a sufficient portion of the tail surface of the hostile plane to destroy it. By his outstanding airmanship, indomitable fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Klingman prevented the enemy from obtaining valuable photographs of friendly installations, and his gallant conduct upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander, Amphibious Forces, Pacific: Serial 00608 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Binger, Oklahoma
Home Town: Binger, Oklahoma

KLUNK, JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Klunk (442679), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 17 June 1944. Serving with an antitank rocket team in the front lines when the enemy launched a heavy tank and infantry attack, Private First Class Klunk unhesitatingly left the protection of his emplacement to fire on the tanks and, despite the heavy hostile fire, moved about courageously and fired on the Japanese tanks at extremely close range. Scoring hits on three of the tanks with four rocket shells, he contributed materially to the successful repulse of the attack and, by his initiative, bravery and zealous devotion to duty throughout, upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6887
Born: at Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Home Town: Sheboygan, Wisconsin

KNOLL, FRANK P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank P. Knoll (0-10748), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Demolitions Officer, attached to Headquarters and Service Company, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, from 15 September to 6 October 1944. Landing with the assault battalions and defying heavy artillery, mortar and small-arms fire, Captain Knoll single-handedly disarmed the personnel and tank mines emplaced in the beach and reef for at least four hundred yards, thereby enabling personnel and vehicles to come ashore in safety. Prior to attacks made by the First Battalion against the Southwest Peninsula on 17 September 1944, he worked in the front lines, continually under intense fire, in order to disarm the mines on the thickly infested sand spit and enabled the assault units supported by tanks and flame throwers, to cross the spit and eventually to annihilate the enemy in that area. Constantly harassed by Japanese sniper fire, he demolished caves and pillboxes, and disarmed mines in the high ground north of the airfield from 23 September to 1 October 1944. On 3 October 1944, before an attack by this organization against the ridge along the east road, Captain Knoll cleared the heavily mined east road and blasted caves and pillboxes, thereby affording safe operation for tanks on the road. His courage, professional skill and devotion to duty throughout these operations contributed materially to our success and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 08088 (SofN Signed August 4, 1947)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

KOLL, DANIEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Daniel Koll (325749), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as a Scout of the Regimental Intelligence Section of the Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the landing operations at Empress Augusta Bay, Bougainville Island, on 1 November 1943. Assigned the mission of carrying vital intelligence information from the Regimental Command Post to the Sector Command Post at Cape Torokina, Private First Class Koll made his extremely hazardous way along four thousand yards of beach exposed to rifle and machine-gun fire. Passing through a gap in the lines, he was suddenly fired upon by entrenched Japanese and, leaping into the trench, immediately killed the enemy. As he regained his balance, he found himself confronted by three other Japanese in the same trench who were swinging their weapons toward him, but before they could attack he shot and bayoneted all three, and then continued on to the successful accomplishment of his mission. Private First Class Koll's brilliant initiative, expert marksmanship and valiant conduct against serious odds reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 00317 (SofN Signed September 13, 1944)
Born: at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

KOLLMAN, CHARLES E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles E. Kollman (0-10277), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-TWO (VMSB-132), Marine Air Group FOURTEEN (MAG-14), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese surface forces in the Solomons Islands Area on 13 and 14 November 1942 and on 7 December 1942. On 13 November in the face of heavy antiaircraft fire, Second Lieutenant Kollman scored a direct hit on the Japanese battleship "Hiei", contributing directly to the sinking of that vessel. Braving both hostile antiaircraft fire and aerial opposition on 14 November, he scored direct hits on an enemy cruiser and a hostile troop transport, thereby aiding immeasurably in breaking up the convoy which threatened the security of Guadalcanal. On 7 December, although he encountered intense enemy fighter opposition which resulted in the loss of his squadron commander and flight leader, he maneuvered his plane with outstanding skill, scoring a direct hit on one of a force of Japanese destroyers approaching Guadalcanal at dusk. By his excellent airmanship, superb courage and loyal devotion to duty, he contributed materially to the infliction of severe losses on the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 612 (SofN Signed July 25, 1951)
Born: at New Matamoras, Ohio
Home Town: Hubbard, Ohio

KOMNENICH, LOUIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Louis Komnenich (297027), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rifleman of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 8 March 1945. Despite heavy hostile mortar and small-arms fire, Private First Class Komnenich voluntarily led tanks forward of his lines to destroy enemy pillboxes. Advancing ahead of the tanks, he conducted them over difficult terrain and, skillfully directing their fire, rendered valuable assistance in the neutralization of three pillboxes. Later the same day when the tanks were under heavy artillery and small-arms fire and all communications were cut, he braved the hostile barrages to climb on one of the tanks and, while directing fire, sustained a painful wound. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Komnenich and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 45501
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

KOONTZ, WILLIAM O.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William O. Koontz (240176), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Regimental Weapons company, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 7 July 1944. As a member of a small group of Marines, Platoon Sergeant Koontz assisted in locating a large number of enemy in two caves on the side of a steep ravine and in fighting them gallantly until all ammunition and grenades were expended, capturing eleven Japanese prisoners in the action. Then, with his group under heavy hostile fire from a jungle thirty yards away, he braved the relentless barrage on orders of his Commanding Officer to remove a wounded comrade to the rear. Learning later that the Commanding Officer has been wounded in the same location and that no Marines remained in the vicinity to furnish covering fire, Platoon Sergeant Koontz heroically returned to the scene alone, knowing that at least one man had already been wounded in attempting the rescue and that he himself had little chance of survival. With enemy fire showering him with rock fragments, piercing his equipment and passing through his clothing, he coolly and courageously dragged the wounded officer with one hand while hacking a path through the jungle with the other, thereby returning him to safety and making possible first aid, without which he might have died. His resolute fortitude in the face of overwhelming odds, self-sacrificing spirit and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Platoon Sergeant Koontz and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 12795 (SofN Signed September 17, 1947)
Born: at Wichita, Kansas
Home Town: San Diego, California

*KOPS, STANLEY D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Stanley D. Kops (291225), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as Commander of the Third Platoon, Company C, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 and 14 September 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

KOST, MICHAEL R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Michael R. Kost (265866), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 9 March 1945. Constantly exposed to intense enemy hand grenade fire, Sergeant Kost advanced rapidly across open terrain to assault a hostile pillbox from which a barrage of hand grenades was falling on his organization. Upon reaching the enemy position, he dropped hand grenades into the embrasures of the pillbox, annihilating six of the Japanese and, although severely wounded during the action, refused evacuation until the more seriously wounded men of his unit had been treated and removed to the Battalion Aid Station. By his success in completing his mission, he contributed materially to the success of his squad in reaching its objective. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Kost and the United States Naval Service.
Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 43549 (January 28, 1948)
Born: at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

KOUMA, ANTHONY B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Anthony B. Kouma (485555), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Headquarters and Service Battery, Third Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 7 July 1944. Investigating suspicious movement in the vicinity of his Battery's position, Corporal Kouma worked his way forward from his foxhole and, discovering the enemy in force to his front, alerted the listening posts and directed accurate and effective automatic fire against the Japanese. Doggedly continuing his advance into the enemy lines under intense machine- gun and rifle fire, he located and destroyed two hostile machine guns which were firing into his Battery. He then returned to his own area and, discovering that the position was becoming untenable, efficiently directed the withdrawal of the men and assisted in the evacuation of the wounded. His leadership, courageous devotion to duty and gallant fighting spirit reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Kouma and the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 9466 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Dwight, Nebraska
Home Town: Dwight, Nebraska

KOUTELAS, GEORGE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George E. Koutelas (0-9041), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 and 5 June 1942. During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Second Lieutenant Koutelas, under tremendous fire from Japanese fighter guns and antiaircraft batteries, dived his plane to the perilously low altitude of four hundred feet before releasing his bomb. On 4 June, after less than four hours' sleep, he participated in an assault which resulted in the severe damaging of a Japanese battleship. His cool courage and utter disregard of personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942

*KOVAL, JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Koval (343806), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with an assault platoon attached to the Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 15 September 1944. When his platoon leader was wounded during the landing operations, Platoon Sergeant Koval unhesitatingly assumed command and, despite a wound sustained while leading an assault against enemy pillboxes and infantrymen entrenched in spider holes along the beach, tenaciously continued pressing the attack toward a Japanese anti-boat gun emplacement which was inflicting heavy damage on our landing craft. Although wounded a second time and in a dying condition, he courageously directed the final assault and was responsible in a large measure for the destruction of the enemy gun, thereby contributing materially to the security of the entire beach. Platoon Sergeant Koval's inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and selfless 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.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 004310 (January 11, 1945)
Born: at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

*KRENZER, LEONARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Leonard Krenzer (0-43055), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as rifle Platoon Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. Determined to force a break in the strongly organized Japanese defenses, Second Lieutenant Krenzer led his platoon and a supporting tank in a boldly aggressive assault on heavily fortified enemy positions and, fearlessly risking his life to smash through the savagely contested area, waged a furious battle, fighting closely in hand-to-hand combat and completely eliminating three hostile pillboxes as he advanced approximately one hundred and fifty yards beyond the battalion position. Confronted at this point by five more pillboxes, he gain pushed forward against fantastic resistance, skillfully directed the firepower of his tank at the nearest installation, succeeded in destroying it completely, and was moving to attack still another enemy fortification when he fell, instantly killed. Unwavering in his devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Krenzer, by his dauntless valor, indomitable fighting spirit and decisive action in the face of tremendous opposition, had effected the annihilation of thirty-five Japanese and the destruction of four hostile strong points, and his unfaltering leadership throughout the bitter conflict sustained and enhanced the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 35798 (September 13, 1945)
Born: at Omaha, Nebraska
Home Town: Omaha, Nebraska

KRULAK, VICTOR H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Victor H. Krulak (0-4990), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, FIRST Marine Parachute Regiment, during operations on Choiseul Island, Solomon Islands, 28 October 1943 to 3 November 1943. Assigned the task of diverting hostile attention from the movements of our main attack force en route to Empress Augusta Bay, Bougainville Island, Lieutenant Colonel Krulak landed at Choiseul and daringly directed the attack of his battalion against the Japanese, destroying hundreds of tons of supplies and burning camps and landing barges. Although wounded during the assault on 30 October he repeatedly refused to relinquish his command and with dauntless courage and tenacious devotion to duty, continued to lead his battalion against the numerically superior Japanese forces. His brilliant leadership and indomitable fighting spirit assured the success of this vital mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SPOT AWARD, Serial 02132 (SofN Signed March 9, 1944)
Born: January 7, 1913 at Denver, Colorado
Home Town: Denver, Colorado

KUNZ, CHARLES M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles M. Kunz (0-7470), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Section Leader and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Leading his section in a dauntless and aggressive assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, First Lieutenant Kunz shot down two Navy Aichi Type dive bombers, thereby aiding in the disruption of the enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
Born: at Dixon, Missouri
Home Town: Springfield, Missouri