Kenneth Edwin Taft, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Kenneth Edwin Taft, Jr. (0-51174), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Commander of Company H, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 26 March 1953. When a numerically superior hostile force launched a savage assault on the critically important outpost position his unit was defending far forward of the main line of resistance, Captain Taft, fearlessly exposing himself to murderous enemy artillery and mortar fire, skillfully effected an urgently needed reorganization of his intrepid garrison of Marines in a gallant attempt to stem the onrushing hostile troops. When the enemy gained the friendly trench line and overran the position forcing his platoon to withdraw to the command post bunker, he provided a stirring example of leadership and courage during these crucial moments by opening fire with his pistol in a final courageous effort to stave off the attackers, personally killing several of the enemy before a hostile satchel charge was hurled into the shelter. Mortally wounded by the exploding missile, Captain Taft, by his indomitable fighting spirit and resolute determination in the face of overwhelming odds, served to inspire all who observed him. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.