Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Master Sergeant

Unit:

Company K, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

January 11th, 1945

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Koval (343806), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with an assault platoon attached to the Third Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 15 September 1944. When his platoon leader was wounded during the landing operations, Platoon Sergeant Koval unhesitatingly assumed command and, despite a wound sustained while leading an assault against enemy pillboxes and infantrymen entrenched in spider holes along the beach, tenaciously continued pressing the attack toward a Japanese anti-boat gun emplacement which was inflicting heavy damage on our landing craft. Although wounded a second time and in a dying condition, he courageously directed the final assault and was responsible in a large measure for the destruction of the enemy gun, thereby contributing materially to the security of the entire beach. Platoon Sergeant Koval's inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave peril 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 004310 (11 January 1945).
Posthumously awarded.