William Carvel Hall

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Carvel Hall (0-381), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 to 29 July 1944. Landing with the initial assault elements of his Regiment in the face of intense Japanese machine-gun, mortar and small-arms fire, Colonel Hall, with complete disregard for personal safety, proceeded from the beach to Chonito Cliff and, remaining steadfast in his exposed position, expertly directed the attack on strategic Adelup Point. Opposed by a numerically superior enemy, strongly entrenched in caves dominating the high ground, he led an attack which moved forward, and seized the hostile positions with a minimum of casualties. Again placing himself with the forward echelons of the assault group on 28 July, Colonel Hall, braving concentrated rifle and mortar fire, fearlessly led his men until the Regiment had attained its objective and consolidated positions against frequent Japanese counterattacks. By his tireless devotion to duty, great professional skill and personal heroism, Colonel Hall contributed directly to the success of our forces in retaking the Island of Guam, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Forces, Serial 00893 (July 23, 1950)