George T. Veneri

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George T. Veneri (801458), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as an Automatic Rifleman, serving with Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. Taking the initiative when hostile mortar and machine gun fire halted the advance of his platoon, Private First Class Veneri armed himself with rifle and grenades and, boldly exposing himself to the full view of the enemy, moved forward alone under the continuous Japanese barrages to a position from which he could effectively cover the reorganization of the platoon and the evacuation of the wounded. Coming upon two enemy gun nests as he proceeded, Private First Class Veneri promptly hurled his grenades toward the hostile guns, silencing both weapons and killing the crews. Although mortally wounded in the fierce exchange of hostilities, he resolutely refused evacuation and rendered further valiant service as his platoon continued the attack. By his cool decision, indomitable fighting spirit and perseverance in the face of tremendous odds, Private First Class Veneri contributed materially to the fulfillment of his company’s mission, and his conduct throughout sustained and enhanced the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 35795 (September 27, 1945)