Charles R. Monarch

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles R. Monarch (344057), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as an Assault Squad Leader serving with the First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 16 September 1944. When the advance of his unit was held up by a deep zone of strong enemy emplacements consisting of a series of concealed concrete pillboxes and rifle pits, and the cross-firing of heavy weapons swept the front of his company, Sergeant Monarch skillfully maneuvered his men into advantageous positions to deliver accurate covering flame-thrower and rifle fire against the Japanese strong points. Courageously and with aggressive determination, he repeatedly made his way forward in the face of intense, continuous hostile opposition and personally placed heavy explosive charges into the embrasures of the enemy emplacements, thus destroying ten of the strongholds and enabling his company to advance. Sergeant Monarch’s brilliant initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty under extremely perilous condition reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 004439 (January 18, 1945)