Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private First Class (Marine)

Unit:

Special Weapons Assault Unit, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

November 15th, 1946

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Section Leader of a Special Weapons Assault Unit of Headquarters Company, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 18 June 1945. Ordered to wipe out numerous enemy cave emplacements along a steep coral ridge covering all possible supply and evacuation routes within the entire zone of action, Private First Class Lawley repeatedly made his way across the open fire-swept terrain to place demolition charges at the cave openings, valiantly returning after setting off each blast to renew his supply. Undeterred by Japanese snipers defending the approaches to the hostile emplacements, he destroyed nine caves and thirty-five of the enemy before he fell, fatally wounded by a vicious burst of sniper fire while placing still another charge. By his dauntless initiative and skill in the face of overwhelming opposition, Private First Class Lawley had contributed essentially to the clearing of a supply route, and his indomitable devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 032401 (November 15, 1946).
Awarded posthumously.