George Oliver White

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Oliver White (331742), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Scout serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on 14 January 1944. When his platoon was pinned down by a withering hail of relentless enemy fire after he had led them to the crest of a hill, Private First Class White unhesitatingly made his way forward through the continuing barrage of machine-gun fire, mortars and hand grenades, in order to locate hostile positions and, subsequently leading three extremely hazardous assaults on enemy machine-gun emplacements, directed his men valiantly and with a aggressive determination until he was wounded during the third charge. Private First Class White’s inspiring leadership and indomitable fighting spirit 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 (SofN Signed September 5, 1944)