Clarence J. Dishmon

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Clarence J. Dishmon (291935), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Twenty- Second Marines (Reinforced), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the invasion of Parry Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, on 22 February 1944. Seeing one of his comrades lying wounded and helpless directly in the line of enemy fire, Private First Class Dishmon, fully realizing the extreme danger, courageously advanced toward the heavily fortified hostile position in order to provide covering fire for the removal of the injured Marine. Bravely attacking the Japanese with his automatic rifle as a rescuer carried his companion to safety, he, himself, was fatally shot by the enemy. Private First Class Dishmon’s great personal valor and aggressive fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Board Serial: 001543 (July 3, 1944)