Warren G. Harding

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)