George F. Grady

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George F. Grady (268414), Private First Class, 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. Although fully aware that his weapon was not functioning, Private First Class Grady unhesitatingly rushed three of the enemy who were firing on members of his squad and engaged them in perilous hand-to-hand combat. By his tenacious determination and physical endurance, he overpowered and killed two Japanese before he himself was mortally wounded. Private First Class Grady’s outstanding courage and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice 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)