Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Awarded on:

November 20th, 1943

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

2nd Amphibian Tractor Battalion, HQ, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

2nd Amphibian Tractor Battalion, HQ, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Henry G. Lawrence, Jr. (0-5963), Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving as Acting Commander of the Second Amphibian Tractor Battalion, Second Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, during the period 20 to 23 November 1943. Personally leading the center group of amphibian tractors in the initial landing, Major Lawrence directed his own tractor over barbed wire and other beach obstacles in the face of intense anti-boat and machine-gun fire, thereby enabling subsequent waves to land successfully and, when his driver was killed, unhesitatingly took the driver's seat and made four trips to the beach with urgently needed supplies and men. With his tractor finally disabled and his Battalion Commander reported killed, he promptly re-boarded a landing boat and organized the remaining vehicles for continued action. Throughout the following three days, he worked tirelessly to direct the landing and delivering of supplies to the front line troops although three of his drivers were killed and he, himself, was twice hit by shrapnel while attempting to get ashore in tractors. Major Lawrence's inspiring leadership and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of grave peril contributed materially to the ultimate capture of this highly strategic atoll and reflect the highest credit upon himself, his command and the United States Naval Service.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

"For meritorious achievement in action against the enemy on SAIPAN, MARIANAS ISLANDS, as the commanding officer of an amphibian tractor battalian from 15 June to 9 July, 1944, while attached to a Marine division. On the day of landing, he took station of a control vessel under heavy enemy fire and in a cool and outstandingly efficient manner, controlled and dispatched his amphibious tractors in ferrying troops to the beach, landing supplies, and evacuating wounded. During this action, many vehicles were damaged. Nevertheless, due to the tenacity and spirit of service he had instilled in his command, his crews returned to the beach, again and again, with badly needed reserves and supplies. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

As "Gold star"

Period:

Korean War (1950-1953)

Rank:

Lieutenant Colonel

Period:

Korean War (1950-1953)

Rank:

Lieutenant Colonel

As "Gold Star"