Center House Association
Marine Barracks — Washington, D.C.



    

The Navy Cross
and the Army Distinguished Service Cross

- World War II -

_______________________________
Barracks officers who were awarded these Medals during World War II Are:

Colonel Merton Jennings Batchelder USMC,, who served at the Barracks in 1928 as a 1st Lieutenant.
Major Robert J. Bear, USMC, who served at the Barracks in 1949 as a Major.
Lt. Colonel Robert W. Boyd, USMC, who served at the Barracks in 1937 as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Major Fletcher L. Brown, Jr., USMC,  (Killed In Action), who served at the Barracks in 1939 as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Colonel Leonard B. Cresswell, USMC, who served as Commanding Officer of the Barracks in 1947 as a Colonel.
Brigadier General James P. S. Devereux, USMC, who served at the Barracks in 1925 as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Colonel William C. Hall, USMC, who served at the Barracks in 1931 as a Captain.
General Franklin A. Hart, USMC, who served at the Barracks in 1923 as a Captain, and was Commanding Officer of the Barracks for a short time that year.
Lt. Colonel Lewis C. Hudson, USMC, who served at the Barracks in 1938 as a 1st Lieutenant.
Colonel John R. Lanigan, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1935 as a 1st Lieutenant.
Lt. Colonel Donald L. Mallory, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1959 as a Lt. Colonel.
Lt. Colonel J. M. Masters, Sr., USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1940 as a Captain.
Lt. Colonel Joseph P. McCaffery, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1935 as a 1st Lieutenant. (Killed In Action)
Lt. Colonel William N. McKelvy, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1943 as a Lt. Colonel.
Major Fenton J. Mee, USMC, (two awards)  who served at the Barracks in 1943 as a Captain.
Major Thomas J. Myers, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1941 as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Lt. Colonel Daniel C. Pollack, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1938 as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Colonel Paul A. Putnam, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1926 as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Major General William H. Rupertus, USMC,  who served as Commanding Officer of the Barracks in 1938.
Lt. Colonel Charles W. Shelburne, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1939 as a 1st Lieutenant.
Captain John B. Sweeney, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1955 as a Lt. Colonel.
Lieutenant General Walter W. Wensinger, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1928 as a 1st Lieutenant.
Lt. Colonel Charles F. Widdecke, USMC,  who served at the Barracks in 1955 as a Lt. Colonel.
Brigadier General Robert H. Williams, USMC,  who served as Commanding Officer of the Barracks in 1954 as a Colonel.


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Note:  We have listed all recipients of these awards based on research from several sources.  Anyone who knows of additional Barracks officers entitled to be listed here, should notify chamembers@centerhouse.org)



The Citations:









Colonel Merton Jennings Batchelder USMC,

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Twenty-Fifth Marines, Fourth Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tinian, Marianas Islands, from 24 July to 2 August 1944. Landing on the heavily fortified beachhead with the first assault wave on D-Day in the face of intense, concentrated enemy mortar, machine-gum and artillery fire, Colonel Batchelder fearlessly directed his command in seizing the vital area, establishing a beachhead line and holding it against repeated vicious counterattacks by a fanatic enemy until the full force of our supporting elements could be landed. Continuing his unceasing efforts, he contributed to the success of his regiment in repelling a determined pre-dawn counterattack, the following day and, thereafter, supervised brilliantly executed, daily attacks against a ruthless and determined enemy, remaining in the field with his front line troops throughout the entire operation, inspiring his men to greater efforts and coordinating the activities of his regiment in capturing this vital Japanese stronghold. His valiant leadership, outstanding fortitude and great personal valor, maintained at great personal risk, reflect the highest credit upon Colonel Batchelder, his gallant command and the United States Naval Service.







Major Robert J. Bear, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as a pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron Two Forty-One during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway on June 4 and 5, 1942.  During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, First Lieutenant Bear, then Second Lieutenant, in the face of withering fire from Japanese fighter guns and anti-aircraft batteries, dived his plane to the perilously low altitude of four hundred feet before releasing his bomb.  Participating in a search and attack mission against a Japanese aircraft carrier on the night of June 4, he brought his plane back to its base under extremely adverse weather conditions.  The following day, after less than four hours' sleep, he took part in an assault which resulted in the severe damage of an enemy battleship.  His cool courage and conscientious devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.








Lt. Colonel Robert W. Boyd, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, from 15 to 26 September 1944.  When his battalion was subjected to a strong enemy tank attack which threatened the entire line, Lieutenant Colonel Boyd directed his troops in repelling the atttack and destroying the Japanese.  Refusing evacuation the next day after sustaining a severe injury to his hand, we went forward with elements of his command and let his battalion across the fire-swept northern end of the airfield.  Moving from one unit to another, he succeeded in capturing and holding strategic areas in the face of intense enemy fire from the dominating ground to his front and left. While taking up a new position just before dark on 25 September, Lieutenant Colonel Boyd personally reconnoitered the entire area despite heavy hostile mortar and small-arms fire and then placed his battalion in a position to repulse a fanatical enemy counterattack with a minimum of casualties.  His professional skill, courage and devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States naval Service.






Major Fletcher L. Brown, Jr., USMC (Killed In Action)

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Executive Officer of Marine Scout Bombing Squadron Two-Thirty-Two during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area.  On August 28, 1942, Major Brown led a section of scout bombers in a courageous attack which resulted in the destruction of three hostile destroyers north or Romos Island.  On the night of August 30, despite poor visibility, he located an enemy naval force attempting to land troops and supplies at Tasimboko.  Pressing home vigorous attacks in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire, he scored several near misses, then dove his plane to a perilously low altitude and strafed the Japanese vessels until his ammunition was exhausted.  His bold determination and fearless aggressiveness compelled the enemy to retire before an appreciable number of troops or amount of equipment could be disembarked.  On September 6, as leader of one division of a striking group, Major Brown raided hostile shore installations on Gizo Island, but failed to return from this mission.







Colonel Leonard B. Cresswell, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Tenaru Sector, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands on the night of August 21, 1942.  Although dense jungle and difficult terrain made it impossible for the tanks assigned to his command to effect a crossing of the river, Lieutenant Colonel Cresswell advanced with his battalion to the other side of the Tenaru and, by the skillful disposal of his men over a large area, succeeded in annihilating the Japanese force between the Ilu and Tenaru Rivers with a minimum loss to his unit.  His brilliant leadership and fine tactical judgment were decisive factors in the accomplishment of a vital mission.







Brigadier General James P. S. Devereux, USMC

Citation:

The Wake detachment of the 1st Defense Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps, under command of Major James P.S. Devereux, U.S. Marines and Marine Fighting Squadron 211 of Marine Aircraft Group 21, under command of Major Paul A. Putnam, U.S. Marines and Army and Navy personnel present.   The courageous conduct of the officers and men who defended Wake Island against an overwhelming superiority of enemy air, sea, and land attacks from December 8 to 22, 1941, has been noted with admiration by their fellow countrymen and the civilized world, and will not be forgotten so long as gallantry and heroism are respected and honored.  They are commended for their devotion to duty and splendid conduct at their battle stations under most adverse conditions.  With limited defensive means against attacks in great force, they manned their shore installations and flew their aircraft so well that five enemy warships were either sunk or severely damaged, many hostile planes shot down, and an unknown number of land troops destroyed.







Colonel William C. Hall, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Third Marines, Third Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, from 21 to 29 July, 1944.  Landing with the initial assault elements of his Regiment in the face of intense Japanese 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 has attained its objective and consolidated position against frequent Japanese counterattacks.  By his tireless devotion to duty, great professional skill and personal heroism, Colonel Hall contributed in retaking the Island of Guam, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.







General Franklin A. Hart, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Regimental Combat Team Twenty-Four, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the attack on Roi-Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, 1 and 2 February 1944.  Landing when the assault troops had advanced only one hundred yards from the beach, Colonel Hart fearlessly led his combat team against heavy enemy resistance in a crushing attack toward its first objective. After repelling numerous counterattacks during the night, he skillfully reorganized his depleted units and effected a coordinated assault the next morning, rapidly overcoming all remaining opposition and exterminating a large force of determined and fanatical Japanese.  By his valiant performance of duty and outstanding leadership throughout this perilous assignment, Colonel Hart inspired all with whom he served and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.






Lt. Colonel Lewis C. Hudson, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 19 and 20 February, 1945.  Landing on D-Day in the face of intense hostile fire, Lieutenant Colonel Hudson continuously exposed himself in the forward areas of the beachhead to encourage and direct his subordinates in the attack.  By his personal example of fearlessness, he inspired his men to move forward in the attack despite heavy mortar, artillery, and machine-gun and rifle fire, and to seize its sector of the initial beachhead, which consisted of the high ground adjacent to an airfield and a considerable area of a heavily fortified cliff line.  On 20 February, when his battalion was subsequently pinned down, Lieutenant Colonel Hudson repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire ir order toe supervise and coordinate the attack. Although suffering painful wounds, he refused medical aid until all other casualties had been given treatment, continuing to supervise the attack until replaced by a new Battalion Commander.  His leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.






Colonel John R. Lanigan, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Twenty-Fifth Marines, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 16 March 1945.  Landing on D-Day under heavy artillery, mortar, machine-gun and rifle fire, Colonel Lanigan quickly reorganized his assault units and directed a determined attack which resulted in the capture of a highly fortified cliff on the right flank of the beach.  Later, with all of the original Battalion Commanders either killed or evacuated because of wounds, Colonel Lanigan accompanied the right assault battalion in further advances up the east coast, personally going from company to company and taking his place in the front lines to encourage the men of this unit.  By his courage, fighting spirit and inspiring leadership, he contributed materially to the capture of strong enemy defenses and to the security of the Island, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.






Lt. Colonel Donald L. Mallory, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company E, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 15 and 16 September 1944.  Although wounded while leading an assault across the southern edge of an airstrip, First Lieutenant Mallory steadfastly refused to be evacuated and, returning to the foremost elements of his company, gallantly led an attack which forced the enemy back another three hundred yards before dark.  Throughout the night, with the Japanese launching almost continuous counterattacks, he personally supervised his men from a position in the midst of the bitter fighting. On the following morning, when his tank-infantry attack was temporarily broken up by direct fire from hostile artillery, he boldly joined the forward elements of the company to coordinate their efforts and encourage them to hold their ground until supporting counterbattery fire could be brought to bear on the enemy weapons.  During this action, he was again wounded and had to be evacuated.  By his fortitude, aggressive fighting spirit and unselfish devotion to duty throughout, First lieutenant Mallory upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.







Lt. Colonel J. M. Masters, Sr., USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Seventh Marines, First Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Dakeshi Ridge, Okinawa, Ryuku Islands, from 10 to 12 May 1945.  On 10 May, when the advance of the Regiment was checked by a strong hostile force, Lieutenant Colonel Masters unhesitatingly went forward of the front lines on reconnaissance and obtained information concerning the Japanese and unfamiliar terrain which enable a successful attack to be made the following day.  On 11 May, he established an advanced observation post in the only possible position on the front lines from which the attack that day could be observed and directed and, despite unusually heavy casualties at the post from intense enemy mortar and small-arms fire, continued to man it and report information vital to the capture of desperately defended Dakeshi Ridge.  Moving the observation post forward again on 12 May, +he advance under intense hostile fire to the Ridge before that ground had been had been completely seized by assault troops and, although the Japanese continued to inflict heavy on his force, persevered in his mission to observe the enemy and terrain, thus securing information which aided materially in the formulation of successful plans for continuing the attack. His inspiring leadership, courage and unremitting devotion to duty throughout were in keeping of the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.







Lt. Colonel Joseph P. McCaffery, USMC (Killed In Action)

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism while in command of the Second Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces during the landing attack of the Third Marine Division, Reinforced, in the Cape Torokina Area, Bouganville Island.  When the initial assault wave under his command landed out of position and became temporarily confused, Lieutenant Colonel McCaffery, realizing the danger of immobilization by enemy fire, immediately organized his command, fearlessly exposing himself to heavy fire from mortars and automatic weapons wile proceeding from unit to unit in order to direct the disposition of his troops for maximum effectiveness. Initiating a daring attack, Lieutenant Colonel McCaffery personally led his men against Japanese fortified positions until he was mortally wounded.  His valiant and inspiring leadership was largely responsible for the success of the attack and his exemplary conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.  He gallantly gave his life for his country.







Lt. Colonel William N. McKelvy, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, First Marines, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands from October 9 to November 24, 1942.  Commanding the successful occupation of an outlying defensive position on the east bank of the Matanikau River, Lieutenant Colonel McKelvy, by judicious foresight and skillful organization, proceeded to repel hostile counterattack measures.  On October 21, despite furious mortar and artillery fire, the battalion, with the aid of attached anti-tank guns, crippled one 15-ton Japanese tank as it approached their position on a reconnaissance mission. On October 23, when the enemy launched a vigorous mechanized assault, the battalion, with the aid of anti-tank guns and half-track tank destroyers, disabled nine 15-ton tanks along with the accompanying infantry.  By his courageous initiative and inspiriting leadership, Lieutenant Colonel McKelvy contributed to the relentless fighting spirit which enabled his battalion to maintain an impregnable position in the fact of repeated counterattack by a desperate and persistent foe.





          

Major Fenton J. Mee, USMC

First Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as a Guide and Platoon Leader of Headquarters Company, First Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands, from 15 June to 1 August 1944.  Pinned down by heavy enemy fire while leading a group to the relief of two tank crews whose disabled vehicles were covered by hostile guns in front of our lines on 4 July, Captain Mee boldly pushed ahead for another three hundred yards and, despite continuous exposure to Japanese fire, succeeded in reaching his objective and in annihilating numerous snipers en route.  By skillfully directing the tank weapons, he assisted in the destruction of two enemy fieldpieces and, after effecting the rescue of the eight Marines in the two tanks, returned with his men to our lines.  By his superb leadership, intrepid fighting spirit and courageous initiative in volunteering to guide his unit in its hazardous undertaking, Captain Mee contributed essentially to the success of a vital mission in this strategically important theater of war, and his unfaltering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Second Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 16 March 1945.  Assuming command after his Commanding Officer and the Battalion Executive Officer bacame casualties, Major Mee quickly reorganized the Battalion and pressed the attack in his zone of action against the heavily fortified "Amphitheatre" area from which the Japanese poured devastating fire into our advancing assault troops.  Skillfully maneuvering his men in this area to gain the vital and critical high ground to the rear, he contained and by-passed the pocket of resistance in the fortified area and, courageously moving from foxhole to foxhole in the front lines of his assault platoons, led his Battalion forward yard by yard through intense enemy rocket, mortar, antitank, machine-gun and small-arms fire.  By his personal leadership and tactical skill, Major Mee contributed greatly to the success of his unit in capturing the commanding high ground in the rear of "Turkey Knob."  His initiative, bravery and aggressive fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.







Major Thomas J. Myers, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, Sixth Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryuku Islands, from 1 April to 15 May 1945.  A brilliant and courageous leader, Major Myers personally directed his battalion on several difficult and extremely dangerous missions, often-times through rough terrain, and was instrumental in clearing the area of strong hostile positions and well concealed Japanese snipers, and in seizing large enemy bivouac areas.  On 10 May, observing that his battalion was suddenly subjected to intense enemy artillery and mortar fire, which compelled withdrawal after a rapid advance across the Asa Kawa River and toward the high ground to the front, he personally went forward through the heavy barrage of fire and, skillfully reorganizing the battalion inspired his men to continue the attack and retake and hold the objective, thus enabling the adjacent units to advance.  By his skillful tactics, gallant leadership; and determined efforts, Major Myers contributed materially to the prompt and efficient completion of all his battalion assignments.  His steadfast devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.







Lt. Colonel Daniel C. Pollack, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 19 March 1945.  With his battalion reduced to forth-three per cent of its landing strength and the remaining members in a critical state of fatigue during the fifth consecutive day of combat against strong enemy defenses concealed by camouflage in extremely rough terrain, Lieutenant Colonel Pollock moved forward into the front lines under intense fire and, conducting a thorough personal reconnaissance of this dangerous area, prepared a bold enveloping maneuver aimed toward position behind Hill 165, the last high ground on the island controlled by the Japanese.  Increasing the morale and fighting efficiency of the battalion by words of encouragement as he proceeded from man to man, Lieutenant Colonel Pollock inspired a new confidence in his exhausted men and led a daring attack through the enemy to the rear o the hill, disorganizing the defending force and annihilating hostile troops who attempted withdrawal.  A brilliant and fearless leader, he directed the capture and occupation of the hill with only minimum personnel losses and then led a small reconnaissance patrol into hazardous, unexplored beach areas, locating rotes of approach to the final ravine positions of the Japanese.  His superb tactics, fearless aggressiveness, indomitable spirit and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of grave danger were decisive factors in the advance of his battalion against a ruthless and fanatic enemy and in the elimination of a vital strong point, and his heroic conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon Lieutenant Colonel Pollock and the United States Naval Service.







Colonel Paul A. Putnam, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Marine Fighting Squadron Two Hundred Eleven in action against enemy Japanese forces at Wake Island, on 21 December 1941.  When the island was subjected to a relentless attack by carrier-based aircraft, Major Putnam proceeded by truck to the airfield and, although severely strafed by enemy planes on the way and forced to abandon his truck on two separate occasions, succeeded in reaching his objective.  Then, embarking in a friendly fighter plane, he executed an unsupported flight far out to sea in a desperate attempt to locate the Japanese carrier.  By his initiative and courage throughout this hazardous action, Major Putnam upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.






Major General William H. Rupertus, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commander of a Landing Force Task Organization comprised of the First Raider Battalion, the Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, and the First Parachute Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the attack on the Solomon islands, August 7-9, 1942.  Despite the comparatively short time afforded him in which to organize his command, Brigadier General Rupertus quickly and efficiently assembled a provisional staff, and with their aid, his forces landed on Tulagi, Gavutu and Tanambogo, British Solomon island, and successfully assaulted a series of strategically disposed and strongly defended enemy positions.  Personally conducting the operation and dauntlessly exposing himself to enemy fire whenever necessary, he displayed exceptional courage and cool determination which served as an inspiration to the officers and men of his command.  His bold and judicious decision and his high professional attainments contributed effectually to the success of our operations in the Tulagi Area and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.







Lt. Colonel Charles W. Shelburne, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, from 1 April to 22 June 1945.  Skillfully leading his battalion through rugged and inaccurately mapped terrain characterized by difficult cross corridors and absence of supply routes, Lieutenant Colonel Shelburne vigorously eliminated stubborn enemy resistance and assisted in the advance of units on his flanks.  In the final, desperately contested phase of the campaign, he led his Battalion in a gallant fight against strongly-entrenched and well-organized hostile forces.  On 24 May, he boldly launched a surprise dawn attack on heavily fortified Shuri Castle. Carrying the assault through mud and over terrain which the enemy considered impassable for an attacking force, he skillfully maneuvered his Battalion and, despite intense hostile fire, quickly penetrated the moated castle and occupied the strategic hill mass surrounding it.  By his unfaltering leadership, skill and courage under fire, Lieutenant Colonel Shelburne contributed materially to the success of a difficult operation and upheld the highest traditions of the united States Naval Service.






Captain John B. Sweeney, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of a Rifle Company, First Marine Raider Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of September 13-14, 1942.  Stationed along Lunga Ridge squarely in the path of the hostile advance on Henderson Field, Captain Sweeney skillfully directed the maneuvers of his company against overwhelming numbers of the enemy who fiercely and relentlessly attacked his perilous position.  With communications practically cut off and the Japanese infiltrating to the rear of his line, Captain Sweeney, by his great personal valor and unswerving devotion to duty, so inspired and encouraged his desperately fighting men that they remained doggedly at their post, despite the extremely casualties.  His brilliant leadership, sound judgment and unyielding defiance of danger wee important factors in the successful defense of Henderson Field during those crucial hours and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.








Lieutenant General Walter W. Wensinger, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Twenty-Third Marines, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 16 March 1945.  Occupying an exposed position under heavy fire from land artillery and coastal defense guns, Colonel Wensinger personally directed the landing attack of his Regimental Combat Team over a beach strongly defended by a fiercely resisting enemy. Observing that his landing elements were suffering heavy casualties that the tanks and other mechanized equipment were unable to assist in the advance, he ordered the movement of his Command Post to the immediate vicinity of the front lines.  Landing amidst intense fire from mortars, artillery and automatic weapons to discover that the beach and evacuation facilities were completely disrupted and inoperative, Colonel Wensinger quickly provided improvised means for the removal of the wounded and for the essential supply of his units ashore and, upon arriving at the advanced locations of his Command Post aggressively maneuvered the units under his command in effecting the rapid seizure of the assigned objectives.  Courageously continuing the attack the following day, he remained in the forward area throughout the day and contributed materially to the successful completion of this vital operation. Colonel Wensinger's superb leadership, gallant fighting spirit and tactical skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.








Lt. Colonel Charles F. Widdecke, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty- Second Marines, Reinforced, First Provisional Marine Brigade, Fifth Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, mariana Islands, from 21 to 25 July 1944. Landing in the assault on Guam, Captain Widdecke led his men to the left flank of our invading force and, securing a position on the beach in the face of strong opposition, prepared for the attack against the fanatic enemy holding Orote Peninsula and its strategic airfield.  A fearless and brilliant leader, he inspired his company to sustain the momentum of the subsequent attacks despite the bitterness of the action and the many casualties sustained by his Marines. With his company's advance disrupted by heavy machine-gun, rifle, artillery and mortar barrages, on 25 July Captain Weddecke organized his men and, stepping out in front of all troops, led them in a bold and aggressive charge through the intense hostile fire.  Throwing the full power of his unit into the fight, he smashed the resisting Japanese with terrific impact, blasting defenses and capturing the hostile position before he himself was seriously wounded.  His daring initiative, indomitable spirit and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk were important factors in the success of our operations against the enemy on Guam, and his heroic conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon Captain Weddecke and the United States Naval Service.









Brigadier General Robert H. Williams, USMC

Citation:

For extraordinary heroism and courageous devotion to duty as Battalion Commander of the First Parachute Battalion, First Marine Division during the assault on enemy Japanese forces, Gavatu Island.  Fighting against very great odds, Lieutenant Colonel Williams and his command daringly stormed strongly entrenched enemy forces and succeeded in securing a beachhead for further operations.  Although he was wounded during this forward thrust, his outstanding spirit of aggressiveness and leadership was an inspiration to his entire Battalion, reflecting great credit up Lieutenant Colonel Williams, his command and the United State Naval Service.










Medal of Honor - Marine Brevet Medal Awards

Viet Nam Navy Cross - DSC Awards

Korean War Navy Cross - DSC Awards

Banana Wars Navy Cross - DSC Awards

World War I Navy Cross - DSC Awards



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 Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C.


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