Warren Herbert Tracey

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Warren Herbert Tracey (292326), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving in a platoon of Reconnaissance Company, Division Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 18 September 1944. Leading his platoon in an attack against a group of enemy pillboxes in this area, Gunnery Sergeant Tracey launched an attack with hand grenades to destroy three machine guns. When a hostile hand grenade landed in the immediate vicinity of his squad leader, endangering his life, he immediately rushed to the man and shielding him with his own body, saved the Marine’s life, although he himself was severely wounded by the exploding grenade. By his courage, initiative and gallant devotion to duty, Gunnery Sergeant Tracey contributed to the success of his mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 8584 (SofN Signed November 26, 1947)