Frank Joseph Gambino

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Frank Joseph Gambino (860868), Assistant Cook, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader in a platoon of Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. voluntarily undertaking the rescue of six wounded men of his platoon who lay exposed to devastating enemy fire, Assistant Cook Gambino courageously pressed forward of the front lines through cross-fire from two heavy machine guns and, laboriously crawling and dragging each wounded man back to the protection of rocks, succeeded in rescuing five of the casualties. Despite a serious leg wound received on the fifth trip, he continued his heroic efforts until he lost his life in an attempt to rescue the sixth man. By his persevering spirit, tireless effort and extreme bravery in the face of grave danger, he saved the lives of five of his fellow Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 34691 (January 10, 1946)