Marine Corps – A-D

ABELL, WELTON R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Welton R. Abell (0-43826), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea from 6 to 8 December 1950. Charged with the responsibility of integrating survivors from a five-day battle and special services personnel unfamiliar with infantry tactics into a coordinated combat group to act as part of the advance guard Battalion for the Division's move from Hagaru-ri to Koto-ri, First Lieutenant Abell placed himself at the head of his troops and boldly led them forward against a vastly outnumbering, deeply entrenched enemy along the line of march. Spearheading the assault throughout twenty-two hours of furious action in sub-zero weather, he continuously exposed himself to blistering automatic weapons, grenade, rifle and mortar fire to re-deploy his troops as casualties occurred and direct their effective fire in overcoming successive strong hostile positions which blocked the road. With all but two of his officers either killed or wounded and his ranks depleted by casualties early in the action, he dispatched runners to notify his platoons of an attempted enemy envelopment of the right flank area and, when both were struck down before completing the mission, moved to the area alone under the intense barrage and calmly disposed his men to shift their fire and block the threat to his lines. Assigned the mission of seizing a commanding ridgeline occupied by overwhelming forces in strong defensive positions the early morning of 8 December, First Lieutenant Abell skillfully maneuvered his depleted company up the steep, frozen hillside in a blinding snowstorm and, by late afternoon had succeeded in gaining a defensive position. Painfully wounded in the shoulder when the enemy launched a vicious counterattack shortly after dark, he steadfastly refused medical attention and continued to remain with his troops, offering words of encouragement and inspiring them to hold fast until the assault was repulsed. His brilliant leadership, fortitude and valiant devotion to duty against tremendous odds reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Abell and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 1011 (September 29, 1951)
Born: at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

ADAMS, JON D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jon D. Adams (1221228), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations as a Machine Gunner of Weapons Company, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 4 - 5 September 1952. With his squad receiving the brunt of a devastating enemy artillery and mortar bombardment while occupying a vitally important sector of an outpost hill position, Private First Class Adams voluntarily moved forward through the murderous barrage and set up his machine gun on the forward slope of the hill in a daring attempt to repulse the inevitable hostile assault. Resolutely maintaining his position until three waves of the enemy were within accurate range of his gun, he opened fire and, delivering a deadly volley upon the onrushing troops, succeeded in repelling the main assault. Although seriously wounded while moving his weapon to a more advantageous position, he continued to bring accurate and effective fire upon the enemy, repulsing a second onslaught. While preparing to move to a third position, and having no tripod at this time, he threw a belt of ammunition over his shoulder, picked up the hot gun in his bare hands and, ignoring the painful burns he was sustaining, fired the weapon from his hip until momentarily blinded by a concussion grenade. Regaining partial sight, he gallantly continued to deliver a hail of effective fire until critically wounded by enemy shrapnel, refusing to be evacuated until all other friendly casualties had received medical treatment. By his exceptional valor, marked fortitude and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming odds, Private First Class Adams single-handedly accounted for fifty-eight enemy casualties. His heroic actions sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 976 (November 17, 1953)
Born: at Fort Worth, Texas
Home Town: Zapata, Texas

ADAMS, RICHARD J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard J. Adams (1191607), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Rifleman of Company G, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 19 - 20 March 1953. Although painfully wounded when the outpost occupied by his squad far forward of the main line of resistance was attacked by an enemy company following a preparatory mortar barrage, Private First Class Adams remained at his post and, delivering a devastating hail of accurate small-arms fire, inflicted heavy casualties upon the onrushing enemy. Observing an enemy grenade land in the trench line near two of his comrades, he unhesitatingly rushed to the scene and placed his helmet over the deadly missile the instant it exploded, thereby saving his fellow Marines from possible serious wounds. Despite additional wounds to himself sustained during this heroic act, he immediately returned to his fighting position and, encountering several of the enemy moving into the trench, single-handedly engaged them in hand-to-hand combat, forcing them from the trench. Nearing a point of complete exhaustion, he still refused medical aid until all other casualties had been treated, and walked unaided a distance of approximately three hundred yards to the main line of resistance. By his intrepid fighting spirit, exceptional fortitude and gallant initiative, Private First Class Adams served to inspire all who observed him and contributed in large measure to the success of his unit in repelling the attackers. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 978 (January 9, 1953)
Born: at Des Moines, Iowa
Home Town: Clear Lake, Iowa

ALEXANDER, GEORGE W., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George W. Alexander, Jr. (0-52680), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Intelligence Officer of the Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 8 - 9 April 1952. Learning that a returning combat patrol had suffered heavy casualties and had been forced to break contact with the enemy before recovering the body of the platoon leader, Second Lieutenant Alexander unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a party into hostile territory in a daring attempt to recover the deceased officer. Organizing a seven-man patrol, he bravely led his unit in fighting off repeated attacks by numerically superior hostile forces en route to the objective, personally killed three of the enemy, and pushed on toward his destination in the face of intense enemy mortar, small-arms and grenade fire. When a member of his unit was wounded, Second Lieutenant Alexander promptly killed one of the enemy who was attempting to capture the stricken man and, while skillfully directing the fire of his automatic riflemen, laid down effective fire with his own weapon until the success of the mission was assured. Throughout a period of three hours, he gallantly maneuvered his patrol across flooded rice paddies in the daylight under persistent enemy small-arms and mortar fire and successfully led his unit into friendly lines with the body of the missing platoon leader. By his outstanding courage, superb leadership and unswerving devotion to the fulfillment of his mission at the risk of his life, Second Lieutenant Alexander served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 152 (March 10, 1953)
Born: at Brookville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Clarion, Pennsylvania

ALLEY, DAVID W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to David W. Alley (11052554), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Automatic Rifleman in Company G, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces on a hill overlooking Yudam-ni, Korea, on 30 November 1950. When the enemy launched an attack while his company was moving into new positions and platoon and squad officers and leaders were either killed or wounded, Private First Class Alley unhesitatingly assumed command of his squad and, skillfully reorganizing his group, conducted the effective defense of his sector with the result that the hostile troops were repulsed. Repeatedly braving intense enemy fire, he positioned and repositioned his men for efficient defense and supplied them with ammunition and grenades, successfully repelling continued hostile attacks throughout the night. Indefatigable in his efforts, he exposed himself to small-arms, automatic weapons and grenade fire again on the next morning to observe and adjust mortar fire for his company. When his company was ordered to break contact with the enemy located fifty yards to the front, he skillfully withdrew his squad without a single casualty. His cool and skilled leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of aggressive enemy action reflect the highest credit on Private First Alley and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 688 (July 11, 1951)
Born: at Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Home Town: Minneapolis, Minnesota

*BANCROFT, ARTHUR RICHARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Arthur Richard Bancroft (0-35520), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Pilot of a Helicopter in Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6) during operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 29 September 1950. Receiving information that a friendly observation plane was overdue from its mission and presumed downed behind enemy lines, First Lieutenant Bancroft voluntarily took his unarmed helicopter over enemy-infested territory to search for the missing aircraft. In the face of intense hostile small- arms and anti-aircraft fire, he deliberately flew at a low searching altitude and apparently sighted the downed plane just before hostile fire found its target and sent his helicopter crashing to the ground. By his daring initiative, outstanding courage and selfless devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Bancroft upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 31 (January 24, 1952
Born: April 18, 1920 at Des Moines, Iowa
Home Town: Hillsboro, Iowa

BANKS, CHARLES L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles L. Banks (0-5313), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of the First Service Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea from 29 November to 6 December 1950. On the morning of 29 November when a numerically superior hostile regiment launched a combined grenade, small-arms, machine-gun and mortar attack against his supply dump area, Lieutenant Colonel Banks quickly deployed his non-tactical personnel into a well-formed defensive perimeter and, assisted by a friendly artillery battery and several tanks, succeeded in repelling the assault and in inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. Aggressively defending his sector against a second determined hostile attack during which heavy and accurate mortar fire ignited several oil dumps and a small enemy force broke through his lines, he immediately shifted his defensive positions, engaged and repulsed the hostile troops and put them to rout, again inflicting heavy casualties. As Sector Commander of approximately one-half of the defense area, Lieutenant Colonel Banks skillfully coordinated the component elements of his command into an efficient fighting team which succeeded in repelling an enemy regiment and in wounding at least fifty per cent of the hostile forces during close fighting which lasted from 1 to 6 December. His tactical ability, organizational skill and inspiring leadership reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Colonel Banks and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 662 (July 14, 1951)
Born: at West Milford, New Jersey
Home Town: Newark, New Jersey

BANNING, VIRGIL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Virgil W. Banning (0-6740), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 23 April 1951. When a determined night assault by a large hostile force of regimental strength deeply penetrated a friendly unit and threatened the west flank of the Marine Division, Lieutenant Colonel Banning led his battalion in a forced march across six kilometers of extremely rugged mountainous terrain to reach a vitally strategic position on top of a 900-meter ridge and halt the enemy attack. Although engaged in fierce fighting almost immediately upon reaching the objective, he boldly exposed himself to intense hostile small-arms and mortar fire to skillfully organize a defensive position, direct his battalion in beating off repeated assaults by the enemy and move among the men with words of encouragement. Receiving orders on the following morning to disengage and take up further blocking positions, he removed all casualties with the battalion while successfully breaking contact with the enemy, evacuating 93 dead and wounded by litter from the fire-swept ridge line. By his brilliant leadership, Lieutenant Colonel Banning served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success of his division in averting the threat of encirclement by the enemy. His outstanding courage, professional skill and valiant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 10 (January 12, 1952)
Born: at Mott, North Dakota
Home Town: Liepzig, North Dakota

BARBOSA, ARTHUR G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur G. Barbosa (660069), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Machine-Gun Squad Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 15 April 1952. When his platoon's outpost was subjected to a night attack by a numerically superior enemy force employing a heavy barrage of artillery fire, Sergeant Barbosa skillfully maneuvered his squad under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire to more favorable positions and effectively directed his men in pinning down hostile gun positions, permitting the remainder of his platoon to reorganize and form a tighter perimeter. As the enemy attack gained momentum, inflicting casualties upon all of his men except one, he quickly manned his machine gun and placed it at a vantage point to cover both sides of the opposition's route of attack. Braving withering hostile fire, he expertly deployed his weapon and vigorously engaged the enemy at extremely close range, personally repelling three assaults on his sector, killing an estimated twelve of the enemy and wounding numerous others. Unyielding in the face of heavy odds, he constantly shouted words of encouragement to his fellow Marines and directed the evacuation of his wounded comrades. Painfully wounded during the fierce battle, Sergeant Barbosa, by his aggressive fighting spirit, exceptional courage and marked fortitude, served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 320 (April 29, 1953)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

BARLOW, QUINTON T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Quinton T. Barlow (376508), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), during action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 16 April 1952. When a reinforced platoon outpost was subjected to a night attack by a numerically superior enemy force employing a barrage of mortar and artillery fire, Technical Sergeant Barlow immediately assumed command and, reorganizing his platoon into a tighter defensive perimeter, assisted his unit in maintaining control of the outpost. Directing the displacement of two light machine guns when the enemy penetrated into the position, he again organized a defensive perimeter and, despite intense hostile mortar and small- arms fire, moved from position to position, shouting words of encouragement and aiding the wounded. With the hostile forces formed for the final assault, he led the fight to repel the attackers, succeeding in dispersing the enemy within five yards of the defensive ridge. By his daring initiative, inspiring leadership and outstanding courage, Technical Sergeant Barlow served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 123 (March 5, 1953)
Born: at Trade, Tennessee
Home Town: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

BARRETT, JOHN M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John M. Barrett (323621), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Leader of a Rifle Squad in Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 10 June 1951. Painfully wounded by hostile grenade fire while leading his men in an attack against a strong enemy hill position, Corporal Barrett courageously refused medical attention and, pressing forward through the intense hostile fire, resolutely continued the attack. Although wounded a second time, he paused only long enough to receive first aid and again charged forward across the fire-swept ground, inspiring his men to follow him in the final assault of the position. While engaged in overrunning the emplacement and routing the entrenched enemy, he was struck by hostile small-arms fire and fell, mortally wounded. By his valiant leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds, Corporal Barrett aided immeasurably in the successful seizure of this strategic terrain and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 154 (March 22, 1952)
Born: at Newport, Rhode Island
Home Town: South Amboy, New Jersey

*BARRETT, ORA EARL, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Ora Earl Barrett, Jr. (1139818), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Automatic Rifleman in Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 10 June 1951. When his unit, hampered by heavy fog and approaching darkness, had withdrawn from a hill to reorganize and resume their attack on the following day, Private first Class Barrett quickly realized that several wounded men still lay in positions swept by intense hostile fire and, courageously moving forward up the slope, placed himself between the casualties and the enemy in order to lay down a base of fire behind which the wounded could be evacuated. Delivering heavy and accurate fire on the hostile positions, he succeeded in distracting the enemy and permitting the casualties to reach safety before he himself fell, mortally wounded. By his daring initiative, valiant fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty in the face of insurmountable odds, Private First Class Barrett was responsible in a great measure for saving many of his comrades and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 174 (March 27, 1952)
Home Town: Bellevue, Idaho

BARROW, ROBERT H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert H. Barrow (0-23471), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Koto-ri, Korea, on 9 and 10 December 1950. Ordered to seize and occupy the high ground on Hill 1081 dominating the pass below and held by a heavily-fortified, deeply-entrenched enemy of approximately battalion strength controlling all approaches to his company's objective, Captain Barrow boldly led his company up the ice covered, windswept, razor backed ridge in a blinding snowstorm and, employing artillery, mortars and close air support, launched a well-coordinated attack. With his forward assault platoon suddenly brought under withering automatic weapons, small-arms and mortar fire from commanding ground as they moved along the narrow snow-covered ridge toward a bare mountain top studded with hostile bunkers and foxholes, he fearlessly advanced to the front under blistering shellfire, directing and deploying his men and shouting words of encouragement as they followed him to close with the enemy in furious hand-to-hand combat. Reorganizing his depleted units following the bitter conflict, he spearheaded a daring and skillful enveloping maneuver, striking the enemy by surprise on the right flank and destroying many emplacements as he continued the final drive up the steep slope in the face of heavy automatic weapons and grenade fire to secure the objective with a total loss to the enemy of more than 300 dead and wounded. By his gallant and forceful leadership, great personal valor and fortitude maintained in the face of overwhelming odds, Captain Barrow aided immeasurably in insuring the safe passage of the FIRST Marine Division through this hazardous pass, and his inspiring devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 30 (January 24, 1952)
Born: February 5, 1922 at Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Home Town: St. Francisville, Louisiana
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (Vietnam)

BATES, WILLIAM H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William H. Bates (0-57633), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 24 - 25 July 1953. With the outpost commander severely wounded when the position, located well in advance of the main line of resistance, was subjected to constant assault by a numerically superior enemy force supported by intense mortar and artillery barrages, Second Lieutenant Bates carried the wounded officer to a defiladed position to prepare him for evacuation, and immediately assumed command of the outpost. Due to heavy casualties and the overwhelming odds, he ordered the remaining men to withdraw to the reverse slope of the outpost where he reorganized the unit and prepared to counterattack. Leading the movement to clear the enemy from the trenches, he succeeded in regaining complete control of the vital combat outpost after several hours of bitter hand-to-hand fighting. Throughout the engagement he inspired his men to heroic efforts by his personal valor, frequently moving from man to man to lend words of encouragement and to direct the evacuation of casualties. By his courageous leadership and intrepid fighting spirit in the face of heavy enemy fire, Second Lieutenant Bates upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 408 (June 17, 1954)
Born: at Sulpher, Oklahoma
Home Town: Portland, Oregon

BEARD, JAMES T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James T. Beard (666308), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Rifleman in Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Hagaru-ri, Korea, on 3 December 1950. When his platoon closed in fierce hand-to- hand combat with a numerically superior and bitterly resisting enemy force, Private Beard courageously exposed himself to intense hostile fire and, moving from position to position through deep snow drifts, successfully employed hand grenades and rifle fire against the well-entrenched enemy. After killing seven hostile soldiers in his initial attack, he single-handedly assaulted and seized an enemy machine gun, turned its fire against the hostile troops and personally accounted for ten more of their number. By his daring initiative, aggressive determination and unflagging devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds, Private Beard served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success of his platoon's attack, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 235 (April 3, 1952)
Born: at Dawson Springs, Kentucky
Home Town: Wheatridge, Colorado

BEATTY, ROBERT E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert E. Beatty (1155115), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a member of Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 8 and 9 April 1952. Despite a painful wound sustained while leading an assault against a heavily defended enemy position during a combat patrol, Private First Class Beatty fearlessly exposed himself to hostile mortar, small-arms and grenade fire in a gallant effort to recover the body of his platoon leader who had been fatally wounded in the attack. Carrying the deceased officer through the enemy fire to the foot of a near-by hill, he concealed the body in a thicket and, although exhausted, made his way back to friendly lines to seek help. Bravely concealing his wounds, he immediately volunteered to guide a recovery party through an intense hostile barrage to the position where he had hidden the body of his platoon leader and, although wounded three times by enemy fire during the intensive action and weakened by loss of blood, delivered effective covering fire for his comrades until the mission had been successfully accomplished. Upon returning to friendly lines, he refused to accept medical aid until the other wounded men had received attention, and walked to a forward aid station some three thousand yards distant before submitting to evacuation. By his outstanding courage, exceptional fortitude and valiant fighting spirit, Private First Class Beatty served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 238 (April 1, 1953)
Born: at Ross Township, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Avalon, Pennsylvania

BELL, VAN D., JR.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Van D. Bell, Jr. (0-44563), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Executive Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Hwach'on, Korea, on 29 May 1951. Accompanying the reserve platoon during the initial phase of his company's assault against a series of strongly defended hostile positions on a steep, rocky ridgeline, First Lieutenant Bell was quick to act when the leading elements suddenly came under devastating automatic weapons and small-arms fire and the platoon leader and several men became casualties. Moving quickly forward through the intense barrage, he assumed command of the disorganized platoon and, effecting a prompt and skillful reorganization, spearheaded an attack to neutralize three enemy bunkers in succession. Blown from his feet and painfully wounded by a bursting grenade upon reaching the fourth, heavily fortified emplacement, he succeeded in regaining his feet and, although partially blinded from facial wounds, led a final charge to capture the hill. Refusing medical attention, he continued at the head of his platoon to another ridge in pursuit of the fleeing enemy and, although wounded in the leg during the advance, personally directed machine-gun fire on the remaining hostile positions to the front, staunchly refusing assistance until the position had been consolidated. By his valiant leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and tenacious perseverance in the face of tremendous odds, First Lieutenant Bell served as an inspiration to all who observed him, and his selfless devotion to duty throughout the bitter action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 234 (April 3, 1952)
Born: at Atlanta, Georgia
Home Town: Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (Vietnam)

BENAVIDES, ADOLFO
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Adolfo Benavides (1264474), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Rifleman of Company D, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 6 October 1952. Although seriously wounded when his unit was subjected to intense hostile mortar and artillery fire while moving to a defensive position forward of the main line of resistance, Private First Class Benavides gallantly refused to be evacuated and bravely proceeded to his assigned position at the outpost. When a fanatical enemy attack by overwhelming forces was launched against the post immediately after the unit's arrival wounding and disabling the other Marines in a bunker occupied by Private First Class Benavides, he courageously recovered hostile hand grenades as they were thrown into the shelter and quickly hurled them back at the enemy. Severely wounded a second time when one of the grenades detonated in his hand, he was largely instrumental in saving the lives of his helpless comrades and in repulsing the enemy's attempts to occupy a vital position. His resolute fighting spirit and great personal valor in the face of heavy odds reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Benavides and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 475 (June 11, 1953)
Born: at Valley Thello, Texas
Home Town: Ault, Colorado

BETTS, ELMER R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Elmer R. Betts (1206938), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Headquarters Company, First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 3 February 1953. While turning his flame-throwing tank around in preparation for a withdrawal after completing his mission of burning enemy trenches forward of the main line of resistance, corporal Betts noticed two wounded Marines in the ravine to the rear and immediately reversed the motion of the vehicle to get closer to the casualties. When his tank was stopped and held fast by an erosion ditch, he dismounted in the midst of heavy enemy small-arms and mortar fire and ground-guided his tank out of the ditch and into the ravine where he assisted the wounded Marines to climb aboard. Informed by the casualties that their tank had been penetrated twice by antitank projectiles which had probably killed the platoon leader and the loader, he immediately enlisted the aid of a fellow tank commander and, running through intense hostile fire to the disabled tank, which was located within twenty yards of well-entrenched enemy forces, succeeded in driving it back to the nearest first aid station. By his exceptional valor, daring initiative and unyielding devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds, Corporal Betts served to inspire all who observed him and was instrumental in saving the lives of the tank crew, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 937 (October 23, 1953)
Born: at Pontiac, Michigan
Home Town: Pontiac, Michigan

BETTS, HARRISON F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harrison F. Betts (0-45714), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Machine Gun Platoon Commander in Company H, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces at Hagaru-ri, Korea, on 28 and 29 November, 1950. With the company command post suffering heavy casualties following attack and penetration by an enemy force of estimated regiment strength, First Lieutenant Betts daringly exposed himself to the intense fire to lead a hastily organized platoon of reinforcements through darkness and snow in an attempt to seal a gap in the line. Undaunted when white phosphorous bomb explosions exposed his unit to fierce and concentrated enemy fire, resulting in severe casualties among his men, he gallantly pushed forward with but eight surviving Marines, seven of whom were wounded, and reached an abandoned house. Completely ignoring his own safety, First Lieutenant Betts dragged the men into the building, administered first aid, and immediately took measures to protect them by moving about outside the house and killing any of the enemy who attempted to enter. Single-handedly, he kept vigil for over three hours and personally accounted for eleven enemy dead, including a machine-gunner and his assistant who were attempting to set up their gun and fire on his position. By his fortitude and superb tactical ability, he was directly responsible for saving the lives of the wounded men and denying the position to the enemy, thereby contributing materially to the ultimate success of his company. His valiant fighting spirit, inspiring leadership and selfless devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Betts and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 641 (July 20, 1951)
Born: at Santa Monica, California
Home Town: Culver City, California

BLASONGAME, RICHARD N.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard N. Blasongame (1138772), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Weapons Company, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Hwang-gi area, East-Central Korea, on the night of 15 - 16 September 1951. Acting as platoon sergeant of the heavy machine-gun platoon, Private First Class Blasongame was put in direct command of the first section of heavy machine guns which were emplaced along a ridgeline on the point of the battalion perimeter, exposed to attack from three sides, and in close proximity to fortified enemy positions. With his gun section bearing the brunt of a series of determined attacks carried out by the enemy during the night, Private First Class Blasongame exhibited unusual courage, leadership, and initiative. Despite the fierceness and intensity of the enemy attacks, he maintained perfect fire control, manned a gun when one of the gunners was wounded, hurled grenades, rendered first aid, supervised the evacuation of the wounded, and rallied his men to repulse each ensuing attack. When ammunition and grenades became critically short, he left his foxhole and exposed himself to a hail of hostile fire to notify the company commander of the situation and to supervise re-supply. On one occasion, upon discovering that the supporting troops on his flank positions had been either killed or wounded, he refused to withdraw his section and continued to hold the position, later going to adjacent positions, bringing up reinforcements, and placing them in positions on his flanks. When a grenade exploded under his last remaining gun, inflicting wounds on his face and hands, and jamming the traversing mechanism, Private First Class Blasongame continued to fire by moving the tripod from side to side. By the next morning, four survivors remained out of his original sixteen-man section, with three of the casualties having been killed. Two hundred and eighty-seven enemy dead were counted in front of the point position, representing only a small portion of the total casualties inflicted during the night. Through his valiant and inspiring actions in holding his position in the face of an apparently hopeless situation, Private First Class Blasongame upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 178 (July 27, 1960)
Born: July 11, 1929 at Los Angeles, California
Home Town: Boulder, Colorado

BLICK, JOSEPH A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph A. Blick (1049634), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Rifleman in Company G, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 7 and 8 December 1950. Voluntarily assuming command of his platoon during a fierce fire fight when the lead and all non-commissioned officers had become casualties, Private First Class Blick quickly reorganized the depleted and battered unit and led it through a blinding snowstorm and a vicious hail of enemy fire in an effective attack on well-entrenched hostile positions. Continuing to direct the assault after the primary objective had been secured, he spearheaded a successful attack against several hostile automatic weapons emplacements, coolly remaining exposed to intense fire during the entire maneuver. Although he sustain two leg wounds in the attack, he was personally responsible for killing fourteen and capturing four of the enemy, and served to inspire the men under his direction to heroic efforts in the accomplishment of their mission. His daring initiative, selfless determination and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of heavy odds reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Blick and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 958 (October 8, 1951)
Born: June 15, 1930 at Paducah, Kentucky
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

BOLT, JOHN F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John F. Bolt (0-13522), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while attached to the First Marine Aircraft Wing and serving as Pilot of a Plane in the THIRTY-NINTH Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, Fifth Air Force, in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 11 July 1953. Sighting four hostile jet interceptors immediately after the second section of his four-plane flight was forced to retire from the area because of a low fuel supply during a reconnaissance mission deep in enemy territory, Major Bolt quickly maneuvered his aircraft and that of his wingman into attack position and deliberately engaged the numerically superior enemy in a head-on firing run, destroying one of the hostile planes with his initial burst of fire. Although his fuel supply was dangerously low, he initiated repeated attacks on the remaining enemy aircraft and severely damaging the engine section of the lead interceptor, resolutely pressed his attack against the crippled plane until the enemy pilot was forced to bail out. By his exceptional courage and superb airmanship in destroying the two aircraft, Major Bolt raised his total of enemy jet planes destroyed during the Korean conflict to six, thereby becoming the first jet ace in the history of Marine Corps aviation. His inspiring leadership and great personal valor reflect the highest credit upon himself and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 1138 (January 6, 1954)
Born: at Laurens, South Carolina
Home Town: Sanford, Florida

*BOOKER, DORSIE HENRY, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Dorsie Henry Booker, Jr. (0-47794), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commander of a Provisional Rifle Platoon, attached to Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Yudam-ni, Korea, during the early morning of 2 December 1950. Rushing to the scene of the heaviest fighting during a fierce hostile counterattack on his positions, First Lieutenant Booker efficiently reorganized his platoon to repulse the assault and, when the numerically superior enemy overran his platoon, he, although an artillery officer, skillfully directed and led successful counterattacks to regain the commanding ground vital to the security of the Battalion's left flank. Repeatedly exposing himself to hostile small-arms, mortar and grenade fire throughout the ensuing five-hour battle, he moved boldly among his group, encouraging the men and directing the evacuation of the many wounded. With no replacements to maintain the weakened perimeter defense, he utilized additional weapons and ammunition from the wounded and deceased, personally manned the most hazardous positions, effectively directed his own fire and that of his platoon to cover the evacuation of the wounded and sustained the defense of his sector until mortally wounded by enemy fire. His cool leadership, tactical ability and indomitable fighting spirit reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Booker and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 642 (July 14, 1951)
Born: January 18, 1924 at Norfolk, Virginia
Home Town: San Diego, California

*BORAWSKI, WALTER CARL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Walter Carl Borawski (464301), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company G, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the early morning of 13 January 1953. Participating in a platoon-sized raid on a strongly-defended enemy hill position far forward of the main line of resistance, Technical Sergeant Borawski skillfully maneuvered the assault element under cover of darkness through intense enemy small-arms and grenade fire to the objective. When his platoon commander was wounded by enemy fire, he immediately assumed command and proceeded to direct the annihilation of the enemy and the destruction of the hostile positions. Although critically wounded by an enemy grenade and suffering intense pain, he gallantly continued to direct the men of the assaulting squads and to shout words of encouragement to them. Upon successful completion of the mission, he steadfastly refused evacuation or medical treatment until assured that all casualties, which numbered over half of the assaulting force, were removed from the devastated area. Succumbing to his wounds while being evacuated to the main line of resistance, Technical Sergeant Borawski, by his indomitable fighting spirit, exceptional fortitude and inspiring efforts in behalf of his comrades, contributed in large measure to the success of his platoon in accomplishing its mission. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and sustains and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 1104 (December 18, 1953)
Born: September 16, 1923 at Utica, New York
Home Town: Utica, New York

BOWERMAN, BILLIE J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Billie J. Bowerman (1191073), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 10 May 1952. As a member of a raiding party which suffered many casualties when taken under intense mortar and automatic weapons fire during an assault on enemy forces occupying well-entrenched positions on commanding ground, Private First Class Bowerman, aware that the wounded were exposed to hostile machine-gun fire, unhesitatingly charged the enemy gun position in an attempt to protect the wounded Marines. Although painfully wounded, and deprived of the use of his rifle, which was blown from his hands during the bombardment, he bravely continued his attack and succeeded in neutralizing the gun position and killing three of the enemy with grenades. Wounded a second time and blown from his feet from the concussion of bursting grenades and mortar shells, he steadfastly refused medical aid and joined his comrades in routing the remainder of the hostile forces. By his inspiring initiative and valiant fighting spirit in the face of heavy odds, Private First Class Bowerman contributed materially to the success of the raid and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 236 (April 1, 1953)
Born: at Cordell, Oklahoma
Home Town: Stockton, California

*BRAATEN, PALMER SYLVESTER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Palmer Sylvester Braaten (402988), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Squad Leader in a Machine Gun Platoon of Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces southeast of Yudam-ni, Korea, the early morning of 2 December 1950. With his company under vicious attack by a fanatical hostile force of Battalion strength during the hours of darkness, Private First Class Braaten fearlessly exposed himself to devastating hostile mortar, grenade, rifle and small-arms fire to direct the accurate and effective fire of his squad against the savage attackers. Moving from position to position throughout the furious battle, he skillfully repaired stoppages on the guns and calmly evacuated the wounded to the company command post as casualties occurred, at the same time encouraging his men and inspiring them to heroic efforts throughout more than two hours of bitter fighting in sub-zero temperatures. When the violent onslaught forced a withdrawal to a new position, he voluntarily manned a machine gun to cover the movement of his company and the evacuation of wounded from forward positions, remaining alone in his exposed position and continuing his fire until his ammunition was expended. Mortally wounded by a volley of hostile grenades as the last man left the area, Private First Class Braaten, by his fortitude, daring initiative and great personal valor maintained against tremendous odds, was responsible for the saving of many lives, and his gallant fighting spirit throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 1126 (November 5, 1951)
Born: June 6, 1922 at Everett, Washington
Home Town: Everett, Washington

BRADLEY, BOBBIE B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bobbie B. Bradley (0-11660), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Commander in Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 8 December 1950. Reorganizing his depleted units following a furious assault against a vastly outnumbering hostile force deeply entrenched on commanding ground, Second Lieutenant Bradley fearlessly exposed himself to heavy and intense enemy machine-gun, mortar and grenade fire from three directions to lead his platoon through a blinding snowstorm in a fierce frontal attack, over-running and destroying the enemy. With his ten remaining men nearing exhaustion and critically short of ammunition, he regrouped and set up a hasty defense in his new position, inspiring them to heroic efforts in repulsing a vigorous counterattack by strong hostile forces. By his superb leadership and aggressive tactics, he was directly instrumental in the successful seizure and defense of his platoon's objective. His gallant devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant Bradley and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 839 (August 6, 1951)
Born: at Lincoln, Nebraska
Home Town: Lincoln, Nebraska

*BRADSHAW, CHARLES WILLIAM (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles William Bradshaw (1163385), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Fire Team Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 25 - 26 April 1953. Participating with a ten-man patrol in defense of an important hill position far forward of the main line of resistance, Private First Class Bradshaw detected an enemy force of approximately platoon size approaching within a few yards of the friendly outpost and immediately opened fire, killing the leading element of the hostile patrol and holding off the attackers until accurate fire could be brought to bear upon them by his comrades. Although severely wounded when a heavy barrage of enemy hand grenades landed upon his position, he steadfastly refused to be evacuated and, when it became apparent that the outpost would be overrun by the enemy, again refused evacuation, continuing to deliver effective fire upon the attackers until completely incapacitated by his wounds. Handing his weapon to another member of the patrol, he voluntarily remained in position and sacrificed his own safety in order to allow his comrades to effect a quick withdrawal. By his indomitable fighting spirit, marked fortitude and self-sacrificing efforts, Private First Class Bradshaw was instrumental in saving the lives of the other members of the patrol. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 366 (June 5, 1954)
Born: September 17, 1932 at Rossville, Georgia
Home Town: Kensington, Georgia

*BRATBACK, EARL BENNETT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Earl Bennett Bratback (1059314), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Leader of a Rifle Squad in Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 25 April 1951. Although the point unit was subjected to fierce hostile automatic-weapons, hand-grenade and small-arms fire from a large bunker directly to the front, and pinned down by flanking fire from high ground during the platoon attack against a strongly defended enemy ridge line, Corporal Bratback bravely refused to seek cover and, realizing that the elimination of the bunker was imperative before the men could move in any direction, carried out a daring assault on the hostile strongpoint. Despite intense enemy fire, he boldly ran across the open ground to within a few feet of his objective and, skillfully throwing a hand grenade into the aperture of the bunker, completely neutralized the position before he was struck by a burst of hostile fire and mortally wounded. By his aggressive fighting spirit and initiative, he served to inspire all who observed him and contributed directly to the security of his platoon. His outstanding courage, resolute leadership and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Bratback and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 230 (April 3, 1952)
Born: February 12, 1928 at Tacoma, Washington
Home Town: Tacoma, Washington

BREEN, RICHARD R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard R. Breen (0-16325), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of Company D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 26 and 27 September 1950. Although painfully wounded in the arm during the first enemy onslaught, Captain Breen skillfully organized and led his men in a fierce counterattack through a deadly hail of intense hostile fire against a well-entrenched and numerically superior enemy force occupying strong defensive positions overlooking the road to Seoul. Operating with ammunition obtained from an air drop when the enemy cut off his supply line, he continued to press the attack until defensible terrain was secured and the enemy-blocked road opened. Seriously wounded a second time during the night, he steadfastly refused evacuation, continuing to issue orders, encourage his troops, consolidate his position and supervise the care of the wounded until assured that his mission had been accomplished and his company had been relieved from the line. His valiant leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds reflect the highest credit upon Captain Breen and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 642 (August 6, 1951)
Born: at New Orleans, Louisiana
Home Town: New Orleans, Louisiana

BRITT, WILLIAM C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William C. Britt (0-54285), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Leader of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korean on 19 March 1953. Participating in a raid against a heavily fortified enemy position forward of the main line of resistance, First Lieutenant Britt skillfully maneuvered his men from the line of departure in the face of heavy enemy mortar fire to seize the objective. Although painfully wounded when the position was subjected to intense hostile mortar fire which severed his platoon from the second assault wave and the main lines, he courageously directed and assisted in the evacuation of all wounded from his casualty-ridden platoon and, providing a stirring example of leadership and coolness under fire, inspired the few remaining Marines to carry out an orderly withdrawal. With his unit again subjected to heavy enemy mortar fire during the withdrawal which resulted in additional casualties, he refused medical treatment despite the intense pain of his wounds and continued to direct the removal of casualties to the main line, declining evacuation until assured that all of his men had been accounted for and had been given medical aid. By his exceptional fortitude, valiant leadership and resolute determination, First Lieutenant Britt served to inspire all who observed him and was directly responsible for the saving of many lives. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 1068 (December 18, 1953
Born: at Fairmont, North Carolina
Home Town: Fairmont, North Carolina

*BROWN, WILLIAM PERRY, JR.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William Perry Brown, Jr. (0-32240), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Pilot of a Plane temporarily attached to Marine Fighting Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE (VMF-323), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 24 February 1952. Volunteering to participate in an eight-plane strike against heavily defended rail and bridge installations along a main enemy supply route at Sariwon, Captain Brown fearlessly pressed home his attack in the face of an intense barrage of hostile antiaircraft fire and scored a direct hit on a rail line with a 1000-pound bomb. Spotting a convoy of enemy trucks entering a well-fortified supply center while he was recovering from his initial dive, he immediately launched a low-level strafing run on the objective despite damage to his plane from continuous hostile ground fire. Although his aircraft burst into flames, Captain Brown bravely continued to dive on the vehicles with his guns blazing until his plane crashed and exploded amid the convoy. His outstanding courage, superb airmanship and valiant devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds reflect the highest credit upon Captain Brown and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 940 (November 26, 1952)
Born: December 23, 1918 at Lovelady, Texas
Home Town: Kilgore, Texas
Other Award: Navy Cross (World War II)

*BRYANT, ROLLINS MASON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Rollins Mason Bryant (561257), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Sergeant in Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 28 May 1952. During a company attack against a heavily defended enemy strong point located on a hill in the vicinity of Tumae-ri, Staff Sergeant Bryant fearlessly led one of his squads through a succession of hostile trenches and bunkers in the face of a hail of bullets and grenades, fought his way to the objective and deployed his men and machine guns in defensive positions despite the constant barrage of enemy mortar and artillery fire. When the platoon leader became a casualty, Staff Sergeant Bryant unhesitatingly assumed command and, although painfully wounded a short time later by hostile mortar fragments, repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to supervise the reorganization of the unit. Throughout several hours of intensive action, he continually moved from one position to another, establishing communications, redistributing ammunition, shouting words of encouragement to his men and assisting his comrades. Despite severe pain and loss of blood, he bravely refused to be evacuated and continued to direct the fire of his squads until he was mortally wounded by hostile mortar fragments. By his outstanding courage, inspiring leadership and valiant devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Bryant was greatly instrumental in the success of the company's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 896 (November 12, 1952)
Born: August 18, 1926 at Lancaster, Kentucky
Home Town: Paint Lick, Kentucky

BURR, PHILLIP J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Phillip J. Burr (0-54302), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Commander of Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 6 October 1952. When the enemy launched a devastating artillery and mortar barrage followed by an infantry assault while his platoon was defending an outpost forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Burr bravely made his way through the trenches in the face of withering hostile fire, encouraging his men, carrying ammunition, organizing the defense and supervising the evacuation of the wounded Marines. Although painfully wounded, he steadfastly refused to accept medical attention and continued to direct his men in the defense of the position. Hurled to the ground and wounded a second time by the explosion of an enemy shell while engaged in carrying ammunition until he was again seriously wounded. Immobilized by his many wounds and evacuated to the medical aid bunker, he skillfully controlled the defense while receiving treatment from a corpsman and maintained complete charge of his unit until relieved by another officer. By his indomitable courage, superb leadership and valiant fighting spirit, Second Lieutenant Burr served to inspire his men to heroic endeavor in their successful defense of the outpost. His outstanding bravery, exceptional fortitude and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of great odds reflect the highest credit upon himself and enhance the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 592 (July 17, 1953)
Born: at Norwood, Massachusetts
Home Town: Medfield, Massachusetts

BUTLER, GEORGE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George H. Butler (240671), Master Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as First Sergeant of Company D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Hongch-on, Korea, on 11 March 1951. Observing that the leading assault platoon was pinned down by intense mortar and automatic-weapons fire during a frontal attack against deeply entrenched and heavily fortified hostile bunker positions commanding all approaches, Master Sergeant Butler voluntarily left his relatively safe position and charged forward up the narrow ridge line, rallying the platoon and encouraging the men to follow him through the hail of enemy fire. Spearheading a fierce assault on the hostile position, he courageously advanced in the face of devastating fire although suffering from painful facial wounds and blinded in one eye after an enemy grenade exploded a few feet from his head. When his own rifle was shot from his hands, he immediately seized another and moved steadily forward, killing ten of the enemy defending the emplacement and inspiring his own men to follow and take the objective. His gallant leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds reflect the highest credit upon Master Sergeant Butler and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 232 (March 5, 1952)

*BUTLER, WALLACE S., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Wallace S. Butler, Jr. (0-56596), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Commander of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 8 April 1953. Shortly after midnight, Second Lieutenant Butler led a small rescue force through devastating enemy fire and extreme darkness to an area where a friendly patrol had become separated and had sustained numerous casualties in a raid against an enemy hill position. After discovering that two wounded Marines were still in the objective area, he gallantly advanced up the hill and returned with both men. Observing that enemy patrols were maneuvering in the immediate vicinity in search of prisoners, Second Lieutenant Butler left his only weapon with the defenseless men and dauntlessly raced approximately three hundred yards to a friendly outpost and, securing the aid of stretcher bearers, returned to direct the evacuation of the casualties. Throughout the remaining hours of darkness, he diligently searched the entire area to locate small groups of the more seriously wounded. By his exceptional courage, leadership and outstanding loyalty to his comrades in the face of heavy odds, Second Lieutenant Butler was largely responsible for the successful evacuation of casualties and served to inspire all who observed him, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 102 ((December 2, 1953)
Born: October 10, 1930 at Grand Forks, North Dakota
Home Town: Grand Forks, North Dakota

*CALDWELL, CRAYTON LOWELL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Crayton Lowell Caldwell (1196254), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while attached to Battery D, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), and serving as a wireman on an artillery observation team of a Marine Rifle Company in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 6 October 1952. Volunteering to serve as a relief on an outpost, Corporal Caldwell immediately assumed the duties of the forward observer, who had become a casualty, and exposed himself to intense enemy sniper and mortar fire to adjust artillery fire on the enemy. When enemy forces launched a furious attack on the outpost, he called friendly artillery fire upon his own position which the enemy had overrun, steadfastly remaining exposed to hostile fire until he was mortally wounded by an enemy mortar shell. By his exceptional courage, daring initiative and unyielding devotion to duty in the face of tremendous odds, Corporal Caldwell served to inspire all who observed him and was instrumental in accounting for many enemy dead. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 934 (October 23, 1953)
Born: January 17, 1933 at Wadley, Alabama
Home Town: Wadley, Alabama

*CANNEY, JOHN JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Joseph Canney (0-6094), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Executive Officer of the Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 28 November 1950. When a strong enemy force overran local outposts and threatened the Battalion command Post, Major Canney immediately organized headquarters personnel and established defensive positions. As the enemy troops moved to within twenty yards of certain command post installations, he, without regard for his own personal safety, courageously moved among the defense positions and directed the fire of his men, lending words of encouragement and redeploying the troops as necessary to meet the pressing penetration until he was mortally wounded. By his outstanding leadership, daring initiative and aggressive fighting spirit, Major Canney aided materially in containing the enemy attack and in gaining the necessary time in which to launch a coordinated, successful counterattack, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 632 (July 5, 1951)
Born: January 13, 1916 at Cambridge, Massachusetts
Home Town: Cambridge, Massachusetts

*CARDILLO, MARIO JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Mario Joseph Cardillo (1214718), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Mortar Ammunition Carrier in Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 9 May 1952. Quick to answer a call for volunteers to go to the aid of a rifle platoon which was subjected to a heavy barrage of enemy artillery, mortar and small-arms fire from a numerically superior hostile force located in nearby, well-entrenched positions, Private First Class Cardillo, although suffering from painful wounds incurred the same day, unhesitatingly assumed a position on an exposed flank out of immediate contact with the platoon. Despite fierce enemy fire, he staunchly maintained his position and engaged the overwhelming force at close range, thereby preventing an encirclement of the platoon and enabling the unit to evacuate the wounded and to withdraw its forward elements. Struck by hostile fire and mortally wounded when the enemy overran his sector, Private First Class Cardillo had served to inspire all who observed him. His great personal valor, exceptional initiative and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 854 (October 20, 1952)
Born: August 4, 1933 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

*CHADWICK, FRED DAVID
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Fred David Chadwick (1005865), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company D, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 31 January 1953. While assisting in the control of the base of fire during a raid against a heavily fortified enemy hill position forward of the main line of resistance, Sergeant Chadwick voluntarily advanced with a rescue party to aid a seriously wounded Marine. When the group was pinned down by a devastating barrage of enemy fire from two machine-gun emplacements, he fearlessly charged forward to deliver effective fire on the hostile positions and succeeded in diverting the enemy's fire from the evacuation unit. Although painfully wounded, he continued to advance and, firing his weapon with deadly accuracy, inflicted numerous casualties upon the enemy, silencing one of the machine guns and enabling his comrades to evacuate the casualty to a defiladed position. Mortally wounded during this heroic action, Sergeant Chadwick, by his indomitable fighting spirit, exceptional courage and resolute determination in the face of heavy odds, was directly responsible for the success of the mission and for saving the lives of his comrades. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and sustains and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 1105 (December 18, 1953)
Born: August 5, 1928 at Louellen, Kentucky
Home Town: Columbus, Ohio

CHAIN, WILLIAM B., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William B. Chain, Jr. (1092552), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Squad Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 13 August 1952. Although painfully wounded and blinded by an exploding hostile grenade after he personally accounted for six enemy dead when his squad's forward outpost was attacked and surrounded by an overwhelming enemy force employing intense mortar, artillery and small-arms fire, Staff Sergeant Chain courageously refused evacuation and quickly reorganized his squad, skillfully directing its fire and calling in supporting arms fire. With the outpost subjected to savage attacks of artillery and mortar barrages followed by wave after wave of assaulting infantrymen, he staunchly refused medical aid and gallantly continued to direct the defense of his position for over a three-hour period, shouting words of encouragement to his men and inspiring them to hold the outpost until reinforcements arrived to relieve his beleaguered squad. By his indomitable fighting spirit, resolute fortitude and great personal valor in the face of heavy odds, Staff Sergeant Chain served to inspire all who observed him and his unfaltering devotion to duty reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 711 (August 17, 1953)
Born: at Camden, New Jersey
Home Town: Camden, New Jersey

CHENOWETH, THEODORE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Theodore H. Chenoweth (0-55758), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Commander of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 28 March 1953. Assigned the extremely difficult and hazardous mission of counter-attacking an entrenched enemy force on a vital outpost located far forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Chenoweth skillfully led his platoon through unfamiliar terrain and along mine-infested routes under cover of darkness with a minimum of casualties. Although seriously wounded during an intense barrage of enemy mortar and artillery fire, he refused medical treatment and effectively directed the aid and evacuation of his stricken comrades. After assuming control of an adjacent platoon when its leader was critically wounded at a time when both platoons were pinned down by devastating hostile fire, he resumed his place at the head of the assaulting force and single-handedly charged the enemy position. Inspired by his remarkable display of courage, the men of his unit followed him and engaged the enemy in bitter hand-to-hand fighting in the trenches, succeeding in routing the hostile force. Quickly establishing a hasty defense, he skillfully consolidated the newly-won area and, despite his weakened condition, continued to direct the vital operations from a prone position, assuring himself that all other wounded were cared for before submitting to medical treatment for his own wounds. By his indomitable fighting spirit, marked fortitude and inspiring leadership, Second Lieutenant Chenoweth contributed in large measure to the accomplishment of his platoon's mission. His personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 456 (August 3, 1954)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Hobart, Indiana

CHINNER, JOHN W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John W. Chinner (567093), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as leader of a Machine Gun Section attached to Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 9 March 1951. With his platoon assigned the mission of seizing a strategic hill position, together with the extremely precipitous ridges leading to it, Sergeant Chinner voluntarily advanced some fifty yards ahead of the lead elements to scout the hazardous terrain and, although exceptionally heavy hostile machine-gun, rifle, grenade and mortar fire forces the unit to move in single file, bravely exposed himself to the enemy while skillfully employing hand signals to direct the leading squad over the best route of approach. When hostile automatic-weapons and grenade fire from two well-concealed bunkers pinned down the platoon and its leading squad, he boldly climbed a sheer twenty-foot rock embankment directly below the enemy positions and, employing only a pistol and hand grenades, killed four of the enemy, thereby permitting his platoon to advance. Armed only with his pistol and captured grenades, Sergeant Chinner continued his lone assault in front of the platoon and, braving heavy hostile rifle and machine-gun fire from a ridge seventy-five yards to his right, brilliantly outflanked three enemy bunkers which were impeding the advance and killed five of the occupants, causing the hostile troops to abandon their positions. Operating ahead of the platoon throughout the entire action, he was the first man to reach the op of the company objective and, by his gallant fighting spirit and daring initiative, contributed directly to the success of his unit. His outstanding courage and steadfast devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Chinner and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 152 (March 3, 1922)
Born: at San Antonio, Texas
Home Town: El Paso, Texas

CHRISTOFFERSON, BERNARD W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bernard W. Christofferson (0-43051), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Rifle Platoon Commander in Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces at Yudam-ni, Korea, during a pre-dawn attack on 28 November 1950. With his platoon under attack by an overwhelming hostile force and unable to dig in on the frozen, mountainous ridgeline, First Lieutenant Christofferson promptly organized a squad of his men when the fanatical enemy overran the heavy and light machine-gun positions and, before the weapons could be place din action against the remainder of his platoon, personally led a brilliantly executed attack in the face of intense grenade, mortar, automatic rifle and machine-gun fire to recapture the weapons and close the gap in the line. During the furious action, fought in sub-zero temperatures, he alone felled more than 20 of the approximately 250 enemy killed and wounded and, by his courageous leadership and superb tactics, inspired his men to continue the assault to retake and hold the objective, thereby making tenable the Battalion's right flank and establishing a successful defense. Throughout repeated attempts by the enemy to break through, First Lieutenant Christofferson moved from man to man under blistering shellfire, encouraging and redeploying the remaining members of his platoon as casualties occurred and directing their valiant efforts in crushing the attackers in each encounter and in preventing further infiltration. His indomitable fighting spirit, fortitude and unrelenting devotion to duty in the face of tremendous odds reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Christofferson and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 789 (August 2, 1951)
Born: at Mora, Minnesota
Home Town: St. Paul, Minnesota

*COLLINS, ALBERT HARVEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Albert Harvey Collins (1046188), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Assistant Machine Gunner in a Machine-Gun Squad of Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 21 September 1950. Despite a mortal chest wound suffered while he was advancing with his company in a concerted attack against strong enemy gun positions, Private First Class Collins courageously continued to craw forward in the face of intense hostile small-arms and machine-gun fire to the area designated for him by his section leader. After reaching his assigned position, he manned his machine gun alone and delivered accurate and devastating fire on the enemy until a corpsman was able to reach him and administer medical aid. By his unflinching courage, outstanding initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Collins upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 342 (April 5, 1951)
Born: May 21, 1930 at Tulsa, Oklahoma
Home Town: Tulsa, Oklahoma

CONAWAY, LYLE F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lyle F. Conaway (606744), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Rifleman of Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 15 - 16 September 1951. When his unit was suddenly subjected to a fierce assault launched by a numerically superior hostile force from commanding ground under cover of darkness, Private First Class Conaway, along with another Marine, quickly volunteered to move forward to defend a heavy machine gun located on the extreme point of the northern flank. Courageously remaining in this exposed position in the face of the intense enemy barrage, he succeeded in delivering accurate and effective fire upon the attackers and, when the machine gun was rendered inoperative during the battle, raced from one fighting position to another, firing his weapon rapidly to simulate greater strength in the line until the machine gun was ready again for action. Although sustaining serious wounds, Private First Class Conaway steadfastly refused to be evacuated and continued his valiant stand against the enemy until he was too weak to fight any longer. By his indomitable spirit and great personal valor in the face of tremendous odds, he contributed immeasurably to the repulse of the hostile force. His inspiring actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 21 (January 17, 1955)
Born: at Virginia, Minnesota
Home Town: Virginia, Minnesota

COUNSELMAN, JOHN D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John D. Counselman (0-49744), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commander of a Rifle Platoon in Company G, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 17 and 26 September 1950. Receiving a head wound immediately upon contact with an undetermined number of the enemy defending a well entrenched and skillfully camouflaged machine-gun position near Seoul, Second Lieutenant Counselman refused to be evacuated and unhesitatingly led his combat patrol in destroying nineteen and wounding three of the hostile troops. Frequently exposing himself to automatic weapons, rifle and grenade fire, he skillfully directed the fight, personally killing several of the enemy, and attended to his own painful wound only after the hostile emplacement had been neutralized. Wounded again on 26 September by hostile fire from a road block which obstructed the advance of his platoon in Seoul, he strategically deployed his men and spotted effective fire which demolished the enemy and the block. His able and cool leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant Counselman and the United States Naval Services.
Authority: Board Serial 661 (July 14, 1951)
Born: at Campbell, Alabama
Home Town: Mobile, Alabama

CROSS, FRANK S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank S. Cross (1190407), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company G, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 19 - 20 March 1953. Participating in the defense of a vital outpost during an attack by an estimated enemy company, Private First Class Cross remained in his sector of the trench line, which covered the main avenue of approach into the position, and delivered effective fire upon the onrushing enemy despite intense hostile small-arms, mortar and grenade fire. When his supply of ammunition was exhausted, the hostile troops forced their way into the trench line through his position. Although suffering from concussion, he fearlessly continued to engage the enemy in bitter hand-to-hand combat, delivering blows with the butt of his rifle until he was able to move to the side of a stricken Marine and secure a loaded weapon. Returning to his position, he killed several of the enemy and forced the remainder to withdraw as he pursued them with accurate small-arms fire. Ignoring his injury, he remained at his post until relieved the following night. By his indomitable fighting spirit, courageous initiative and personal valor, Private First Class Cross served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 497 (August 3, 1954)
Born: at Ilhavo, Portugal
Home Town: Turlock, California

DAIGNEAULT, DONALD A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald A. Daigneault (1177703), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Automatic Rifleman in Company D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 12 September 1951. When his squad, assigned the mission of covering the company's attack on an enemy-held hill, encountered an intricate net of anti-personnel mines and booby traps which inflicted seven casualties, Private First Class Daigneault immediately observed that the enemy were preparing to press their advantage by moving down the ridge to attack the helpless squad and, although suffering from multiple shrapnel wounds sustained in the minefield, advanced with his automatic rifle to meet the oncoming hostile troops. Crawling forward to an exposed position to draw the enemy's fire away from the other wounded, he put his gun into action and, with deadly accuracy, killed four of the attackers, wounded three more and forced the others to withdraw. Steadfastly refusing evacuation until the enemy had been effectively repulsed, he was responsible for saving the lives of his comrades and for the accomplishment of his unit's mission. His heroic initiative, selfless determination and valiant devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Daigneault and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 285 (April 12, 1952)
Born: at Freeport, New York
Home Town: Hempstead, New York

DAILEY, JOSEPH W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph W. Dailey (335540), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 25 February 1953. While participating in a company raid on an enemy outpost, Technical Sergeant Dailey unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a rescue squad in an attempt to recover four Marine casualties who wee discovered lying a few feet from a strongly fortified enemy-held trench. Moving quickly to his objective, he skillfully maneuvered his squad into a position from which he was able to rescue the casualties and, despite an intense hail of enemy machine-gun, grenade and automatic-weapons fire, carried out a further search of the surrounding terrain until he located and recovered two other wounded Marines. As an enemy force advanced toward his position, he skillfully withdrew his men and all the recovered casualties to friendly lines. By his exceptional courage, outstanding leadership and daring initiative in the face of continuous hostile fire, Technical Sergeant Dailey was directly instrumental in saving the lives of six wounded Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 1020 (December 1, 1953)
Born: February 17, 1917 at Mason City, Iowa
Home Town: Oakland, California

*DAVIS, JAMES CARROLL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James Carroll Davis (276400), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Provisional Marine Brigade (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, in action against enemy aggressor forces northeast of Chindong-ni, Korea, on 8 August 1950. Engaged in the Chindong-ni Area where Company H had overrun its objective and had hastily deployed for night defense, Staff Sergeant Davis with his platoon assumed a forward position for more effective defense against an enemy force entrenched only 75 yards distant. While repairing a defective hand grenade, he inadvertently dropped it in the midst of his fellow Marines. Without a moment's hesitation, he chose to sacrifice himself rather than endanger his companions and threw himself upon the live grenade, absorbing the full impact of the explosion and thereby saving the lives of at least five men in the immediate vicinity. By his loyalty, fortitude and courageous devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Davis upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 166 (April 13, 1951)
Born: September 23, 1923 at Jasper County, Georgia
Home Town: Indianapolis, California

DEMAS, JOHN G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John G. Demas (0-45751), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of Company H, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea from 13 to 15 August 1952. Charged with the mission of defending a vitally important hill position, Captain Demas bravely led his company to the objective area under an intense enemy artillery and mortar barrage and in the face of persistent sniper fire. Although wounded early during the action, he repeatedly exposed himself to withering hostile mortar, small-arms and artillery fire to select the most advantageous defensive positions and continuously moved from one foxhole to another to direct the fire of his men, shouting words of encouragement to them above the din of battle. When the enemy launched a series of vicious assaults against the company under cover of darkness, he constantly assumed positions in the thick of the fighting and, throughout a three-day period of intensive action, inspired his men in repelling the attackers. Blown from his feet while engaged in close combat with hostile troops, and with his clothes torn by shrapnel fragments, he continued to direct and reassure his men when the position was in danger of being overrun by the enemy and, although exposed to intense hostile fire, personally administered aid to the wounded whenever corpsmen were unavailable. By his superb courage, outstanding leadership and valiant fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming odds, Captain Demas upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 348 (May 12, 1953)
Born: at Weirton, West Virginia
Home Town: Weirton, West Virginia

DIRST, LLOYD V.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lloyd V. Dirst (0-30117), Chief Warrant Officer, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Officer in Charge of Military Police Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Pusong-ni, Korea, on 29 and 30 November 1950. Traveling with his company in a road convoy from Koto-ri to Hagaru-ri when a numerically superior hostile force attacked with intense automatic-weapons, small-arms and grenade fire, Chief Warrant Officer Dirst quickly and skillfully organized his unit into a cohesive defense and, integrating other friendly elements, deployed the group along the ditch beside the road. Braving heavy and accurate enemy fire from distances as close as ten yards, he boldly observed the movements of the assailants and was responsible for aborting their desperate attempts to close and destroy his line of resistance with hand grenades. Throughout the night, he courageously moved up and down the road to encourage the hastily organized men in gallantly defending their precarious location and in repulsing the repeated enemy attacks. A vigilant and courageous leader, he personally accounted for several enemy casualties and supervised his group in holding off the enemy for approximately 12 hours before he was seriously wounded by hostile shrapnel which prevented him from continuing in combat. His tactical skill, indomitable courage and steadfast devotion to duty served to inspire all who observed him and reflect the highest credit upon Chief Warrant Officer Dirst and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 213 (March 31, 1952)
Born: at Hiawatha, Kansas
Home Town: Sabetha, Kansas

DOEZEMA, RICHARD M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard M. Doezema (0-49805), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Artillery Forward Observer attached to the Eleventh Company, Third Battalion, First Korean Marine Corps Regiment in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the early morning of 24 April 1951. When the adjacent unit was overrun and his position threatened by the rapidly approaching enemy during a violent attack by a numerically superior hostile force, First Lieutenant Doezema fearlessly braved intense enemy fire to assist in assigning friendly troops to strategic positions from which they could effectively resist the violent onslaught. Moving constantly among his troops despite the continued assault, he shouted words of encouragement to his men and, personally taking over abandoned weapons, placed accurate fire on the assailants and called for supporting artillery barrages to drive back the attacking units. A courageous and aggressive leader throughout this fierce action, he succeeded in rallying the confused allied troops to defend the strategic ground for several hours until ordered to withdraw. By his indomitable courage and inspiring devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Doezema upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 170 (March 27, 1952)
Born: at Dunfries, Virginia
Home Town: Grand Rapids, Michigan

DUKES, MATTHEW D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Matthew D. Dukes (1153593), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Fire Team Leader in Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 14 September 1951. Moving forward with the point platoon when an enemy sniper temporarily pinned down advancing elements during an attack against a heavily fortified enemy deeply entrenched on commanding ground, Corporal Dukes boldly charged forward alone in pursuit of the sniper. Sustaining a bullet wound which deprived him of the use of his left eye, he gallantly continued on and, crawling across 40 yards of open fire-swept terrain launched a single-handed attack and destroyed the enemy with small-arms fire. Although bleeding profusely, he refused to seek aid and, remaining in the assault, drove forward with his unit until the objective had been seized and his platoon firmly established in defensive positions. Observing a fellow Marine lying wounded in an open area and under concerted hostile fire as he made his way toward the aid station, Corporal Dukes again exposed himself to the intense barrage in an effort to effect a rescue and, carefully lifting the helpless victim and placing him on his back, carried him to a covered position from which he could be evacuated. His fortitude, dauntless perseverance and great personal valor, maintained in the face of tremendous odds, served as an inspiration to all who observed him and reflect the highest credit upon corporal Dukes and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 546 (June 21, 1952)
Born: at Fort Sill, Oklahoma
Home Town: Marlow, Oklahoma

DUNAY, ANDREW F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Andrew F. Dunay (299872), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Section Leader, attached to the First Platoon, Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Hagaru-ri, Korea, on 6 and 7 December 1950. Immediately following a fierce hostile attack which carried the enemy into the company positions, Sergeant Dunay checked the post of each of his men and, finding one of his rocket launcher operators knocked down by the impact of a grenade, skillfully manned the weapon in order to maintain maximum fire power at this strategic point. Undeterred by the lack of protective emplacements, he plunged forward to a better firing position on higher ground in front of both lines and, standing fully exposed to intense hostile grenade and automatic weapons fire, effectively discharged his launcher at the enemy, killing at least twenty. Although suffering from painful facial burns received from the propellant of his weapon each time he fired in the sub-zero weather, he rushed to the defense of a machine gun which was in danger of being outflanked and overrun by the onrushing enemy and, when his rocket launcher failed to operate, employed rockets as hand grenades, thereby repulsing the aggressive and determined hostile assault. By his daring initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and inspiring devotion to duty during a serious crisis, Sergeant Dunay contributed materially to the defense of one of the main approaches to Hagaru-ri, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 658 (July 14, 1951)
Born: at Holyoke, Massachusetts
Home Town: Russellville, Massachusetts