James T. Simmers

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James T. Simmers (290952), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Assistant Squad Leader, serving with Battery A, First Battalion, FOURTH Marines (Detached) as member of a Navy Bluejacket-Marine Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Fort Mills, Corregidor, Philippine Islands, 6 May 1942. Stationed alone in an isolated firing position on a steep slope above the Corregidor beach when the main Japanese landing was effected, Corporal Simmers single-handedly engaged two barge loads of hostile troops that landed directly beneath him. As the occupants of these barges disembarked and rushed to the slope in small groups, Corporal Simmers valiantly stood his ground, threw approximately twenty-five hand grenades into the ranks of his attackers and then started firing an automatic rifle, boldly fighting on alone until the barges pulled offshore and the few surviving Japanese ashore fled down the beach. By his initiative, determination and courage, Corporal Simmers succeeded in annihilating approximately one hundred of the enemy and in preventing them from gaining a stronghold near his post. His heroic conduct and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Board Serial: SPECIAL (March 11, 1947)