Marine Corps

*AYERS, GERALD LAMSON (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Gerald Lamson Ayers (475522), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. While bringing well-aimed fire to bear on strong enemy positions, Private Ayers was severely wounded and later died from these wounds. However, his critical wounds neither interfered with his fire nor his alertness and when he discovered an enemy machine gun about to open fire, he passed word back to his comrades and directed fire of his platoon upon it. Refusing evacuation until the Japanese strong point had been obliterated, Private Ayers' action saved the lives of many of the men in his company. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private Ayers on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 510 (1943)
Born: at Windsor, Vermont
Home Town: Windsor, Vermont

*BROWN, ROBERT JOSEPH (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Joseph Brown (296184), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with Headquarters Company, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action in the vicinity of Abucay, Bataan, Philippine Islands, on 15 January 1942. While on legal leave from his proper unit, Private First Class Brown voluntarily joined a detail from the 57th Infantry which was charged with the mission of destroying an enemy position through which snipers were infiltrating into our lines. During the performance of this mission this intrepid soldier, observing that one of his companions had been severely wounded, and was unable to move, proceeded without orders in the face of enemy machine gun fire at close range in an effort to evacuate the casualty. Silencing a hostile gun by a well-placed hand grenade, and inflicting several additional casualties on another enemy group which prevented his reaching the vicinity of the wounded man, Private First Class Brown had thereby disclosed his position to the enemy and was mortally wounded by the ensuing enemy fire.
Headquarters: Allied Forces in the Philippines, General Orders No. 15 (April 5, 1942)
Born: January 21, 1921 at Havana, Illinois
Home Town: Havana, Illinois

*BUNN, BENNIE M. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Bennie M. Bunn (0-212871), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy on New Georgia Island, British Solomon Islands, on 10 July 1943. When the leading assault elements of his company were held up by a strong enemy position, the defense of which was built around one heavy and three light machine guns supported by riflemen, Lieutenant Bunn, calling to four Marines near him, led a charge to a position close to the heavy machine gun. With grenades and pistol fire he killed the crew and captured the gun. He then turned the captured weapon against the other machine guns and neutralized their fire so effectively that they were quickly captured by the members of his squad. His bold and rapid action completely disorganized the enemy position and permitted the company to continue its advance.
War Department, General Orders No. 52 (1944)
Born: at Charles City, Iowa
Home Town: Charles City, Iowa
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (Nicaragua), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII)

*CAIN, WILLIAM F., JR. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William F. Cain, Jr. (262545), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of Company D, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, while leading his squad in a succession of daring encounters with the enemy at Enogai, New Georgia, Solomon Islands from 7 to 9 July 1943. When he came upon a fifteen- man Japanese patrol armed with several machine guns, Corporal Cain led his squad without hesitation in a fierce struggle; personally capturing one of the machine guns and killing five of the enemy, including the officer in command. Corporal Cain displayed sustained courage and battle leadership, moving his squad time after time into the most perilous positions so that he could strike with maximum force and deadly effect. His heroic conduct under fire won him the highest respect and admiration of his entire company. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Corporal Cain on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 5 (January 2, 1944)
Home Town: San Francisco, California

*CALLAHAN, CALISTE A. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Caliste A. Callahan (434002), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Parachute Battalion, First Marine Amphibious Corps, in action against the enemy near the Torokina River, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 28 December 1943. When heavy enemy mortar, machine gun and rifle fire from a heavily fortified series of concealed pill-boxes and rifle pits held up the advance of a combat patrol of the 1st Marine Parachute Battalion whose mission was to destroy an enemy outpost one half mile east of the Torokina River, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, Private First Class Callahan and a comrade moved forward in the face of the hostile fire and quickly destroyed two emplacements with grenades and demolitions charges. Then, on his own initiative, he charged forward to the remaining positions where he engaged in fierce hand-to-hand combat and inflicted severe casualties before he was killed. Through his intrepid, voluntary assault without regard for his own safety and at the cost of his life, Private First Class Callahan enabled his patrol to overcome the enemy and continue the advance, setting a lasting example of heroism for his comrades-in-arms.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 25 (1950)
Born: at Houma, Louisiana
Home Town: New Orleans, Louisiana

CARRINGTON, JAMES W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James W. Carrington (0-48412), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters and Security Detachment, East Central Luzon Guerrilla Army Forces, from 15 March 1944 to 5 February 1945. After a hazardous escape from Bilibid Prison, Manila, Lieutenant Carrington established contact with, and was inducted into, the East Central Luzon Guerrilla Army Forces. Assigned as Commandant, Headquarters and Security Detachment, he displayed unusual zeal and ingenious ability in training and drilling non- English speaking guerrilla recruits and forming them into an able combat team, which successfully faced the enemy time and time again under his personal command. When the Japanese forces attacked the main radio station and headquarters of the East Central Luzon Guerrilla Army Forces on Bituin and Balabag Mountains on four separate occasions, extending over a period of 8 days, with the aid of two salvaged machine guns. Lieutenant Carrington repelled the initial attack and, with five additional riflemen, completely routed the second and succeeding assaults, despite seemingly overwhelming odds. Moving the headquarters to the lowlands, he returned several times through the enemy lines to rescue the sick and wounded and retrieve necessary equipment, including his two machine guns. Throughout his entire service, Lieutenant Carrington displayed outstanding leadership ability and devotion to duty and reflected great credit on himself and the military service.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 69 (October 14, 1948)

CHAMBERLAIN, REID CARLOS (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Reid Carlos Chamberlain (22334352), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy while serving with the Philippine Guerilla Forces in the Philippine Islands during the period 15 January 1943 to 13 November 1943. After escaping from Corregidor and a long journey through enemy-occupied territory, Corporal Chamberlain reported for duty to the commander of the United States forces operating on the island of Mindanao. Acting the in the capacity of an officer he served as liaison officer, continually performing hazardous missions between the headquarters of various forces and delivering supplies to units by means of small boats operating in waters constantly patrolled by enemy vessels. Corporal Chamberlain's courage, resourcefulness, and determination enabled him repeatedly to penetrate the enemy blockade and to render conspicuous service to the United States forces in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding heroism and skill reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 83 (1943)
Born: at Parkin, Arkansas
Home Town: El Cajon, California

*CORBETT, JOHN R. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John R. Corbett (0-78560), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Twice-wounded, First Lieutenant Corbett intelligently and courageously maneuvered his platoon in a skillful, steady advance against strong enemy resistance. Ignoring his own safety in the interest of his men and the success of his assigned mission, he heroically continued to direct his platoon's fire until he lost consciousness from a third wound which caused his death. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by First Lieutenant Corbett on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 529 (December 26, 1943)
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

*COSTELLO, RAY FRANK (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Ray Frank Costello (465649), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of Company N, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy Japanese forces at Viru Village, Vangunu, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 1 July 1943. Until he lost consciousness from the wounds which caused his death, Private Costello lay in the path of heavy enemy fire between his own lines and those of the enemy and courageously called out directions of fire to his comrades. His heroic actions were responsible for the safe temporary withdrawal of his platoon. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Costello on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 518 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Morris, Illinois

DOBERVICH, MICHAEL (POW)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Michael Dobervich (0-6161), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy while serving with the Philippine Guerilla Forces in the Philippine Islands during the period 15 January 1943 to 13 November 1943. Although physically weakened by eleven months detention in a Japanese camp for American prisoners-of-war, Major Dobervich outwitted the Japanese guards on 4 April 1943, made his escape, eluded pursuing patrols, and made his way from Davao to northern Mindanao. Hearing of an American force still operating against the enemy, he continued on foot and by launch to its headquarters, with information of great military value on the defense of Bataan and the treatment of our prisoners-of-war in Japanese hands. He volunteered his services to the commander of this force and served for nearly six months in responsible staff duties. During this period, Major Dobervich exhibited great coolness and courage in the presence of the enemy and his services were of great value in effecting successful operations against the Japanese forces. His outstanding heroism and skill reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 78 (December 6, 1943)
Born: at Crosby, Minnesota
Home Town: Ironton, Minnesota

*EASTON, CHARLES S. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Charles S. Easton (364140), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company O, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Repeatedly leading his squad in charges against well- established enemy positions, Corporal Easton was credited with wiping out three machine-gun nests that blocked the advance of his company. Even when he was wounded, he refused to leave the fight and directed the fire of his squad until he collapsed. Corporal Easton died of the wounds he received in the attack where he had displayed the highest type of courage and devotion to duty. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Corporal Easton on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 510 (December 19, 1943)
Home Town: Carmi, Illinois

*GILBERT, ORRA E. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Orra E. Gilbert (287343), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of Company P, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces at Viru Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 29 June 1943. Leading his platoon in an assault on an enemy machine- gun nest, Platoon Sergeant Gilbert fell seriously wounded close to the front lines. Refusing evacuation or removal to safety, he continued to direct the fire of his platoon under direct hostile observation until he was again hit and killed by heavy enemy fire. His courageous actions contributed much to the defeat of the enemy and in preventing many casualties in his platoon. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Platoon Sergeant Gilbert on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 517 (December 20, 1943)
Home Town: Bussey, Iowa

*GOJMERAC, NICHOLAS J. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Nicholas J. Gojmerac (351802), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Hearing a wounded comrade in the front lines cry out for help, Private Gojmerac, with complete self-sacrifice, crawled out to him through extremely heavy rifle, machine-gun and mortar fire, administered first aid and dragged him to safety. While removing the man, Private Gojmerac was seriously wounded. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Gojmerac on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 531 (December 26, 1943)
Born: at Kansas City, Missouri
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

GRAY, OLIN M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Olin M. Gray (458574), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. After all the other men in his machine-gun squad had been either killed or wounded, Private Gray, on his own initiative, took over the gun and manned it single-handedly with spectacular daring and zeal during the entire action. He repeatedly exposed himself purposely to the Japanese and boldly invited fire so that their gun positions would be divulged. These challenging tactics netted him the discovery and destruction of two enemy machine-gun nests. During a withdrawal, he covered the rear elements of his company and was the last man to leave the area. His aggressive, fearless conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the service and contributed greatly to the success of his company's share in the action. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private Gray on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 513 (December 19, 1943)
Home Town: Alton, Illinois

GRIFFITH, SAMUEL B., II
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Samuel B. Griffith, II (0-4436), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in the attack on an enemy shore battery at Enogai Point, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, from 7 to 10 July 1943. Colonel Griffith frequently went alone on reconnaissance through areas covered by enemy fire as he skillfully led his battalion in its advance through swamp and dense jungle toward the objective. Although his men had been without food or water for thirty-six hours, his brilliant leadership and courage infused them with fresh energy to deliver paralyzing blows in the final assault during which four naval guns were seized and 350 of the enemy were killed. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Griffith on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 502 (December 17, 1943)
Born: at Lewistown, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Frankfort, Kentucky
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Navy Cross (WWII)

HASH, CHESTER D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Chester D. Hash (272063), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company P, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Leading his men in vigorous thrusts against Japanese emplacements, Platoon Sergeant Hash was responsible for the destruction of three machine-gun nests. While attacking the third position, he was struck by five machine-gun bullets but emptied his own weapon at the enemy and directed the fire of his platoon until the objective was taken. His aggressiveness and skill sere in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and were an inspiration to the men with whom he served. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Platoon Sergeant Hash on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 519 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Whitewright, Texas

HAWKINS, JACK (POW)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jack Hawkins (0-5931), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy while serving with the Philippine Guerilla Forces in the Philippine Islands during the period 15 January 1943 to 13 November 1943. Although physically weakened by eleven months detention in a Japanese camp for American prisoners-of-war, Major Hawkins outwitted the Japanese guards on 4 April 1943, made his escape, eluded pursuing patrols and made his way from Davao to northern Mindanao. Hearing of an American force still operating against the enemy, he continued on foot and by launch to its headquarters, with information of great military value on the defense of Corregidor and the treatment of our prisoners-of-war in Japanese hands. He volunteered his services to the commander of this force and served for nearly six months in responsible staff duties. During this period, Major Hawkins, by his able and courageous direction of intelligence work, not only aided in successful operations but also gathered and supplied General Headquarters in Australia valuable information of the enemy situation throughout the Philippine Islands. His outstanding heroism and skill reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 78 (December 6,1943)
Born: at Roxton, Texas
Home Town: Roxton, Texas

HOLMGRAIN, ERIC S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Eric S. Holmgrain, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy Japanese forces at Viru Village, Vangunu, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 1 July 1943. Ignoring the dangers of exposing himself to enemy fire, Lieutenant Holmgrain went to the aid of a wounded gunnery sergeant who was lying in the direct line of enemy machine-gun fire. He not only removed the man to a position of safety but he stopped long enough during the process to wipe out the enemy machine-gun nest. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by First Lieutenant Holmgrain on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 513 (December 19, 1943)
Home Town: Dearborn, Michigan

JOHNSON, LOWELL A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lowell A. Johnson (204208), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy Japanese forces at Viru Village, Vangunu, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 1 July 1943. Unable to move as a result of three serious wounds, Gunnery Sergeant Johnson lay between the lines of the enemy and those of his own company and directed fire in an attack on hostile machine-gun emplacements. Brushing aside a chance to escape unnoticed by the Japanese, he refused evacuation until the position of his men was secured. Because of his heroic devotion to duty, many casualties were averted and two or more machine-gun nests were wiped out. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Gunnery Sergeant Johnson on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 513 (December 19, 1943)
Born: at Knoxville, Illinois
Home Town: Havre, Montana

*JONES, JOHN W. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John W. Jones (366843), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Sixth Marine Regiment, SECOND Marine Division, in action against the enemy at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 22 January 1943. While advancing with his company, Private Jones was wounded in the neck by enemy machine gun fire. In spite of the wound, he continued to advance until he had sighted the enemy gun. While gaining a suitable field of fire, he was wounded twice more, once in the leg and once in the side, but continued on his mission and put the enemy machine gun out of action before dying from his wounds. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private Jones on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 53 (March 6, 1943)
Home Town: Kirksville, Missouri

*KLEIN, LEONARD (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Leonard Klein (450168), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Parachute Battalion, First Marine Amphibious Corps, in action against the enemy near the Torokina River, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 28 December 1943. When heavy enemy mortar, machine gun and rifle fire from a heavily fortified series of concealed pill-boxes and rifle pits held up the advance of a combat patrol of the 1st Marine Parachute Battalion whose mission was to destroy an enemy outpost one half mile east of the Torokina River, Private First Class Klein and a comrade moved forward in the face of the hostile fire and quickly destroyed two emplacements with grenades and demolitions charges. Then, on his own initiative, he charged forward to the remaining positions where he engaged in fierce hand-to-hand combat and inflicted severe casualties before he was killed. Through his intrepid, voluntary assault without regard for his own safety and at the cost of his life, Private First Class Callahan enabled his patrol to overcome the enemy and continue the advance, setting a lasting example of heroism for his comrades-in-arms. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Klein on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Far East Command, General Orders No. 89 (March 1, 1947)
Home Town: Newark, New Jersey

*MAASSEN, DALE G. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Dale G. Maassen (457309), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Severely wounded a moment after taking over a machine gun when a member of his squad was fatally injured, Private First Class Maassen stayed at his post knowing that the continued operation of his weapon was essential to the movement of his company. Private Maassen died of the wounds he had ignored in order to deliver well-aimed fire when it was needed most. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Maassen on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 529 (December 26, 1943)
Home Town: Avoca, Iowa

NOVINA, JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John Novina (450064), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company N, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Acting promptly and calmly in an emergency during an attack when all the other men in his squad were either killed or wounded, Private First Class Novina, on his own initiative, operated a machine gun alone while being subjected to the exceptionally heavy fire from enemy rifles, machine guns and mortars. His effective fire harassed the enemy and succeeded in allowing the left flank of his company to withdraw and reorganize for a continuation of the assault. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Novina on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 521 (December 22, 1943)
Home Town: Hobart, Indiana

*PHILLIPS, CARL (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Carl Phillips (288293), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company P, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Phillips led three charges against three Japanese machine-gun positions and wiped them all out, clearing the way for his company's continued advance. Then observing an attempted enemy flanking fire which threatened to inflict a heavy toll of casualties, he led a charge with an infectious intenseness and determination that was almost instantly transmitted to the men who rallied under his leadership. He lost his life at the muzzle of the weapon he was bent on silencing before he died and succeeded in knocking it out of action. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Sergeant Phillips on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 518 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Hingham, Massachusetts

PHILLIPS, WESLIE L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Weslie L. Phillips (288235), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company P, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Occupying a key position in the center of his company's lines, Corporal Phillips pressed forward alone with a machine gun after all the other men in his squad had become casualties. The fire he laid down was so destructive that the enemy were driven from a ridge. Gathering ammunition from the dead and wounded, he held off the enemy while the wounded were being evacuated under the cover of his fire. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Corporal Phillips on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 521 (December 22, 1943)
Home Town: North Abington, Massachusetts

POLLARD, THOMAS D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas D. Pollard, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy at Enogai Point, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 7, 8, 10, and 20 July 1943. Leading the charge of his platoon in successful attacks on enemy positions near Enogai, First Lieutenant Pollard was credited with shooting four enemy snipers who were concealed in trees. Two days later his platoon was ordered to flank hostile machine-gun positions which held up the advance of two companies. Lieutenant Pollard led his platoon through the jungle to the enemy's flank and rear, knocked their gun positions out of action, killed many of the enemy and drove others into the sea. He then continued to lead the advance to the beach near Enogai Point where two machine guns were captured. In later attacks against well entrenched forces defending Bairoko, his platoon penetrated enemy positions and advanced to within 200 yards of the harbor which was defended by a concentration of 90-mm. mortar fire. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by First Lieutenant Pollard on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 517 (December 20, 1943)
Home Town: Gainesville, Florida

*REGAN, WILLIAM A. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William A. Regan (404273), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in the early part of the engagement at Bairoko Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 20 July 1943. Just as his squad was putting a light machine gun into action against particularly well-prepared Japanese positions, Private First Class Regan received mortal wounds. Although dying, he continued through sheer courage and zealous devotion to duty to man the gun and directed a fiercely effective fire until he collapsed. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Regan on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 517 (December 20, 1943)
Home Town: St. Paul, Minnesota

SHOFNER, AUSTIN CONNER (POW)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Austin Conner Shofner (0-5641), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy while serving with the Philippine Guerilla Forces in the Philippine Islands during the period 15 January 1943 to 13 November 1943. Although physically weakened by eleven months detention in a Japanese camp for American prisoners-of-war, Major Shofner outwitted the Japanese guards on 4 April 1943, made his escape, eluded pursuing patrols and made his way from Davao to Northern Mindanao. Hearing of an American force still operating against the enemy, he continued on foot and by launch to its headquarters, with information of great military value on the defense of Corregidor and the treatment of our prisoners-of-war in Japanese hands. He volunteered his services to the commander of this force and served for nearly six months in responsible staff duties. Combat operations planned and coordinated under his direct supervision did much to reduce the enemy and limit his action. Major Shofner, by his daring escape, his determination, and his voluntary services, made an important contribution to continued resistance in the Philippine Islands and provided valuable information to United States forces. His outstanding heroism and skill reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 78 (December 6, 1943)
Home Town: Shelbyville, Tennessee

*SIM, ALEC M. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Alec M. Sim, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy at Enogai, New Georgia, Solomon Islands. Leading his platoon with great skill in two successive attacks against superior forces, Second Lieutenant Sim overcame stiff resistance offered by the enemy and drove them from a vitally important objective near Enogai on 9 July 1943. Again on 20 July, he displayed the same conspicuous qualities of inspiring combat leadership in a drive on the Japanese garrison at Bairoko when his platoon penetrated well-entrenched hostile positions, destroying two machine guns and inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. Lieutenant Sim was killed while leading his platoon in the last phase of the bitter attack. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Second Lieutenant Sim on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 510 (December 19, 1943)
Home Town: Colton, California

TEAGUE, WAUSS R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Wauss R. Teague (323703), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of Company Q, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion, in action at Vuru Village, Wickham Anchorage, Vangunu, Solomon Islands on 30 June 1943. While holding a key position on the west bank of the Kearuka River, Sergeant Wauss R. Teague was credited with killing at least four enemy snipers. His conduct was at all times characterized by an intense interest in the safety of his comrades and in the utter defeat of the enemy. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Sergeant Teague on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 502 (December 17, 1943)

*TOWER, EVERETT L. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Everett L. Tower (347185), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a Member of Company P, FOURTH Marine Raider Battalion while his squad was acting as point for a large combat patrol near Viru Harbor, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 29 June 1943. Moving up a steep hill on a narrow trail, the patrol was suddenly fired on by strong enemy forces. Disregarding his own safety, Private Tower stayed on the trail, the only point under hostile observation, to direct the deployment of his comrades. He was killed as he started to leave the trail after all the men were in a position to most effectively beat off the attack. His heroic conduct was responsible for averting heavy casualties. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Tower on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 518 (December 21, 1943)
Home Town: Ransomville, New York