Marcus V. Rankin

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Marcus V. Rankin (1182035), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 14 July 1953. Serving as a Squad Leader, Sergeant Rankin displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. During the early morning hours a friendly listening post unit proceeding forward of a company outpost position inadvertently entered a minefield and detonated a mine which killed one Marine and wounded three others. Realizing that immediate evacuation of the wounded was essential, he and one of his comrades carried one injured Marine to the comparative safety of the outpost. After removing the injured man to the outpost, he courageously returned over the treacherous area to aid the other stricken men. Upon reaching the stricken unit, he again adeptly directed and assisted in carrying the wounded Marines to the safety of friendly lines. Although physically exhausted, he exhibited remarkable courage as he ignored his personal safety and proceeded forward through the hazardous minefield in complete darkness in an attempt to retrieve the body of the mortally wounded Marine. Demonstrating sincere loyalty for his fallen comrade, Sergeant Rankin diligently traversed the entire area until daylight searching for the body. Sergeant Rankin’s gallant and courageous actions combined with his highly competent leadership and indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.