John B. Sweeney

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John B. Sweeney (0-7883), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commanding Officer of a Rifle Company of the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 and 14 September 1942. Stationed along Lunga Ridge squarely in the path of the hostile advance on Henderson Field, Captain Sweeney skillfully directed the maneuvers of his company against overwhelming numbers of the enemy who fiercely and relentlessly attacked his precarious position. With communication practically cut off and the Japanese infiltrating to the rear of his line, Captain Sweeney, by his great personal valor and unswerving devotion to duty, so inspired and encouraged his desperately fighting men that they remained doggedly at their post, despite the extremely heavy casualties. His brilliant leadership, sound judgment and unyielding defiance of danger were important factors in the successful defense of Henderson Field during those crucial hours and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Serial 02162 (SofN Signed July 17, 1944)