James H. Green

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James H. Green, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 2677 Regiment, Office of Strategic Services, in action against enemy forces from 17 September 1944 to 26 December 1944. Lieutenant Green’s outstanding accomplishments, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James H. Green (0-32885), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader attached to Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 16 April 1945. When the assault elements of his company were halted and communications disrupted by the pounding barrages from a 4.7 naval gun emplaced four hundred yards to the front and extremely heavy flanking machine-gun and mortar fire, with resultant severe casualties to our attacking forces, Second Lieutenant Green gallantly placed himself at the head of his reserve platoon in a desperate attempt to destroy the sources of the smashing gunfire and, braving the fierce concentrations directed at him, knocked out three Japanese machine guns with accurately hurled grenades, thereby enabling his men to advance upon the entrenched enemy. Inspired by his heroic actions, his troops unhesitatingly followed their dauntless leader in the fierce assault that followed to demolish ten hostile machine-gun positions, destroy the 4.7 naval gun and kill and estimated fifty Japanese soldiers. Although mortally wounded during the final stages of the furious onslaught, Second Lieutenant Green, by his exemplary courage, aggressive leadership and unflagging devotion to duty, contributed materially to the successful seizure of this final organized enemy position on Motobu Peninsula, and his conduct throughout reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 52321 (January 17, 1946)