Orvan S. Slaughter

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Orvan S. Slaughter (248692), First Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as First Sergeant of an assault company attached to the Second Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 22 November 1943. Voluntarily assuming command when the officers of his company became casualties, First Sergeant Slaughter courageously led his men forward under a constant barrage of enemy shellfire and successfully destroyed three Japanese pillboxes obstructing their advance before he himself was killed. His prompt decision, daring aggressiveness and heroic self-sacrifice in the face of grave peril directly contributed to the success of our forces in that area and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Board Serial: 917 (March 24, 1944)