Toivo Henry Ivary

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Toivo Henry Ivary (0-16847), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving as a Platoon Leader in Company G, Second Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Although critically wounded while attempting to kick an enemy grenade away from his men shortly after landing, Second Lieutenant Ivary refused evacuation and, despite severe pain, loss of blood and extreme difficulty in moving around, tenaciously persisted in directing the successful combat activities of his platoon throughout the entire day, permitting himself to be evacuated only when, at nightfall, he was too weak to crawl. His great personal valor, indomitable fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 0647