Finley Arnold Gordon

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Finley Arnold Gordon, Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman with Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy forces at Cape Gloucester in the Bismarck Archipelago on 10 January 1944. During the desperate encounter at Hill 150, Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class Gordon constantly exposed himself to heavy fire while ministering to six injured Marines. He continued his work until he was killed while aiding a mortally wounded officer. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class Gordon undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 328 (July 1944)