George L. Halenkamp

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Second Lieutenant, George L. Halenkamp, United States Marine Corps Reserve for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy on Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands on 31 May, 1945. During the bitter struggle for Schichina, Second Lieutenant Halenkamp’s platoon had withdrawn, with permission, to a more advantageous position for the night. Upon arriving at his new position, he noticed that two of his men had been wounded during the withdrawal and were in an exposed position in the middle of the field. Realizing that unless the men were rescued before darkness they would either be taken prisoner by the enemy or die, he requested permission to attempt to get them out. Permission was granted and although there was no more smoke available, he made his way under fire to the first wounded man and throwing him over his shoulder ran back to his own lines. The enemy by this time was fully aware that an effort would be made to rescue the other man, and laid a heavy screen of fire over his position. He, completely disregarding his own safety, made his way out into the field and although by this time the enemy was firing every weapon they possessed in an effort to prevent it, he was again successful in getting the wounded man back. His heroic actions were an inspiration to all members of the command and were with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.