John E. Watson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John E. Watson (0-53153), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while attached to Headquarters and Service Company, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 12 and 13 August 1952. When a numerically superior hostile force isolated a rifle company on a vitally important outpost far forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Watson fearlessly led his unit forward under full enemy observation and through a heavy small-arms and mortar barrage to an enemy-occupied ridge in an effort to determine the strength and disposition of the hostile troops. Upon successful completion of the mission, he voluntarily returned to the same area in a daring attempt to recover the casualties sustained by his unit and subsequently led his remaining force forward of the main battle position to protect he highly vulnerable left flank of the beleaguered outpost. When an estimated enemy regiment launched a series of strong attacks against the outpost and bombarded it with a devastating artillery and mortar barrage throughout an eight and one half hour period, Second Lieutenant Watson courageously led his men in aggressive counterattacks and in hand-to-hand combat with hostile forces and, skillfully directing the few Marines under his command, succeeded in repulsing at least three savage attacks on his exposed position and in inflicting heavy losses on the enemy. By his indomitable fighting spirit, valiant leadership and resolute determination in the face of overwhelming odds, Second Lieutenant Watson served to inspire all who observed him and contributed in large measure to the success of his unit in insuring the integrity of the critical hill position. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John E. Watson (348449), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 17 June 1944. When his battalion was attacked by hostile tanks during hours of darkness, Private First Class Watson unhesitatingly left the safety of his foxhole and voluntarily led an assault on one of the Japanese tanks. Throwing two incendiary grenades, he stopped the tank and then killed its occupants as they attempted to escape. Continuing to render valiant service, he braved intense machine-gun fire from another enemy tank to carry a wounded comrade to safety. Later, he again exposed himself to intense enemy machine-gun and sniper fire to cross open terrain and bring back to the comparative safety of our lines his mortally wounded Company Commander. By his initiative, courage and zealous devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of our forces and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.