Arthur V. Davis

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur V. Davis (470859), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rifle Platoon Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 13 May 1945. During a reorganization of his platoon following a successful attack against a strongly defended enemy ridge, Sergeant Davis learned that a considerable force of Japanese were concentrating in an area on the forward slope of the ridge. Taking charge of a second platoon which had lost its Platoon Leader and became disorganized, he led both platoons in a gallant assault to overrun the enemy position and annihilate the force of forty Japanese. Then, organizing a night defense of the hill, he skillfully employed his units in successfully defending a strategic position against a prolonged and fanatical hostile night attack that threatened our lines. His indomitable fighting spirit, courageous initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 14356