Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Colonel

Unit:

3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division "Fighting Third", U.S. Marine Corps (3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division "Fighting Third", U.S. Marine Corps)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold C. Boehm (0-6553), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, during the assault on enemy Japanese-held Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 25 February to 11 March 1945. Gallantly risking his life under heavy enemy fire, Lieutenant Colonel Boehm fearlessly carried out reconnaissance of hostile territory in preparation for attacks which resulted in the advance of his Battalion across Motoyama Airfield Number Two despite withering opposition and capture of a formidable Japanese position which had checked the advance of two divisions for several days. Due to critical losses in officers and key non-commissioned officers, he valiantly took over front-line leadership upon initiating a series of perilous advanced on 7 March, effectively directing the coordinated efforts of flame throwers, bazookas, tanks and artillery in repeated thrusts against heavily fortified and fanatically defended positions. During four days of heavy fighting, he personally advanced his Battalion to the cliffs overlooking the beach at the northern end of the island, cleared the enemy from these commanding positions and then turned to operate against the Japanese forces remaining on the right flank of the original advance. His outstanding professional skill, great courage and inspiring leadership throughout this prolonged period of bitter hostilities were vital factors in the success achieved in his sector and reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Colonel Boehm and the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 56883 (August 1, 1945).