Frederick B. Harvey, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frederick B. Harvey, Jr. (0-22764), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Commander of Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 15 and 16 June 1944. Landing at the water’s edge with the initial assault waves in the face of devastating rifle and machine-gun fire, First Lieutenant Harvey moved his platoon inland against fanatic enemy resistance to establish the original point of disembarkation. When a Japanese officer rushed at him swinging a sword, he parried the blow and killed the man with his carbine. Charging an enemy shellhole when his rifle jammed, First Lieutenant Harvey courageously used his bayonet in hand-to-hand combat until a Japanese grenade exploded in the vicinity, knocking off his helmet and forcing him to take cover. Although wounded, he continued his heroic efforts and contributed directly to the success of our forces in taking this fiercely defended Japanese stronghold. By his leadership, fighting spirit and personal valor in the face of overwhelming odds, First Lieutenant Harvey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Board Serial: 145 (January 9, 1950)