Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division "Fighting Third", U.S. Marine Corps (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 Howard N. Kenyon (0-3735), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 25 February 1945. Fully aware that strong hostile fortifications presented the grim threat of a disaster should our advance falter during an attack north of Motoyama Airfield, Colonel Kenyon bravely elected to lead his Regiment across the fire-swept runways of the airfield and, by inspiring his men with a zealous determination to carry through the advance, contributed materially to the successful prosecution of a critical attack against almost impregnable Japanese positions. After penetrating these hostile emplacements, he skillfully maneuvered his unit in a strategic cut through to the northern end of the Island in a forceful advance which proved to be a decisive factor in the defeat of the enemy on Iwo Jima. His outstanding leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 50938.