Augustus H. Winchester

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Augustus H. Winchester (245393), First Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company D, Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Parry Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, on 22 February 1944. With the advance of his company halted by relentless hostile fire from brush-covered entrenchments, First Sergeant Winchester courageously led part of a platoon in a fierce drive against the hidden enemy, successfully destroying the Japanese underground fortifications and their trapped defenders. By his great bravery, aggressive leadership and unwavering devotion to duty, First Sergeant Winchester contributed materially to furthering the advance of his company and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 01446 (SofN Signed August 29, 1947)