William H. Van Dyke

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William H. Van Dyke (280272), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima, in the Volcano Islands, on 22 February 1945. When his company’s attack was stopped by concentrated antitank and artillery fire from a high ridge to the front, Platoon Sergeant Van Dyke unhesitatingly attempted to lead his platoon up the high ground to assist the adjacent platoon. Though the company’s automatic weapons had been rendered inoperative by rain and sand, he pressed forward until enemy gunfire disabled two supporting tanks to his immediate front. Persistent in his valiant efforts to deliver supporting fire, Sergeant Van Dyke attempted to mount the crippled tank but was struck down by the enemy. His great personal valor and aggressive fighting spirit in the face of tremendous odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 32433 (July 19, 1945)