Maurice R. Amundson

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Maurice R. Amundson (0-9482), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company G, Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 21 – 27 July 1944. A forceful and courageous leader, Captain Amundson directed his men aggressively and with expert tactical skill and, on 27 July, when his company was ordered to spearhead an attack down a narrow neck of land on Orote Peninsula through a particularly strong enemy defensive position, tenaciously kept the attack rolling by his own inspiring valor despite the heavy casualties inflicted on his company. Fearlessly exposing himself to intense hostile fire, he repeatedly moved in and out of the front lines, pointing out targets to his tanks and personally directing the placing of supporting weapons and evacuation of the wounded until he was killed while administering first aid to one of his men. Captain Amundson’s indomitable fighting spirit, unselfish efforts and steadfast 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 004334 (November 9, 1944)