Eugene Edward Baxter

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Eugene Edward Baxter (0-3808979), Pharmacist’s Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to the First Battalion, Second Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, during the Solomon Islands Campaign from 7 August 1942 to 3 November 1942. On 9 October 1942, Pharmacist’s Mate First Class Baxter displayed unusual valor and bravery while rescuing survivors lost when a Personnel Boat capsized in Lengo Channel off Guadalcanal. At that time he spent over an hour in shark-infested waters and personally accounted for ten of the fourteen survivors that were saved. On 3 November 1942 during the offensive against the Japanese beyond the Matanakau River on Guadalcanal, Pharmacist’s Mate Baxter was killed while carrying a wounded Marine out of a ravine in the face of persistent enemy fire. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist’s Mate First Class Baxter undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander, Southern Pacific Forces and Area: Serial 2977 (August 28, 1943)