Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

2nd Battalion, 21st Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division "Fighting Third", U.S. Marine Corps (2nd Battalion, 21st 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 George A. Percy (0-3106), Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Executive Officer and subsequently as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 21 February to 16 March 1945. After his Battalion Commander was wounded and evacuated on 2 March, Major Percy assumed command of the Battalion at a time when the combat efficiency was low and the men were faint with fatigue and shock. Revealing outstanding professional ability and an intimate knowledge of the situation, he quickly organized the Battalion's defense for the night and, on the following morning, led his force in an attack which ended on the cliffs overlooking the sea. Severely wounded in the left arm while directing an attack on 8 March, he submitted to treatment by the Battalion Surgeon but refused to leave the field. Wounded a second time that afternoon, he against refused evacuation and remained with his troops until completion of the operations. His indomitable fighting spirit, strategic ability and aggressive leadership were contributing factors to the final victory, and his exemplary devotion to duty reflects the highest credit on Major Percy and the United States Naval Service.

Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 51256 (November 22, 1948).