Jonathan Mayhew Wainwright IV

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to General Jonathan Mayhew Wainwright, IV (ASN: 0-2131), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty from March 12 – 7 May 1942, while serving with U.S. Army Forces in the Philippine Islands. General Wainwright distinguished himself by intrepid and determined leadership against greatly superior enemy forces. At the repeated risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in his position, he frequented the firing line of his troops where his presence provided the example and incentive that helped make the gallant efforts of these men possible. The final stand on beleaguered Corregidor, for which he was in an important measure personally responsible, commanded the admiration of the Nation’s allies. It reflected the high morale of American arms in the face of overwhelming odds. His courage and resolution were a vitally needed inspiration to the then sorely pressed freedom-loving peoples of the world.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jonathan Mayhew Wainwright, Major General, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces from 21 December 1941 through 5 January 1942, in the Philippine Islands. Major General Wainwright’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.