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Pollock, Edwin Allen

Date of birth:
March 21st, 1899 (Augusta/Georgia, United States)
Date of death:
November 5th, 1982 (Charleston/South Carolina, United States)
Buried on:
Beaufort National Cemetery
Plot: 60. Grave: 40.
Service number:
0-3745
Nationality:
American

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Lieutenant Colonel
Unit:
2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps
Awarded on:
October 1942
"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in action against enemy Japanese forces Guadalcanal, during the night of 20 - 21 August 1942. When the troops under his command were subjected to a powerful and determined surprise attack at the Tenaru River, Lieutenant Colonel Pollock, immediately leaving his Command Post, advanced through severe enemy mortar and machine-gun fire to a position in the front line, and while thus constantly exposed to extreme danger, directed the defense of our forces for a period of twelve hours. As a result of his excellent judgment and superb leadership, the men under his command destroyed practically the entire enemy force of seven hundred. His outstanding courage and dauntless spirit of aggressiveness contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
Navy Cross
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Colonel
Unit:
2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps
"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the Pacific Theater of Operations in December 1943."

w/ Valor Device
Legion of Merit - US Military

With Valor Device
Period:
Korean War (1950-1953)
Rank:
Major General
Unit:
Commanding General, HQ, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps
Awarded on:
1953
"For exceptionally meritorious service in a position of great responsibility as Commanding General, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in Korea, from 29 August 1952 to 15 June 1953. Displaying astute judgment and mastery of military science, he effected an integrated, flexible command and through assiduous exploitation of sound tactical concepts and forceful leadership, the command achieved outstanding success in bitter engagements on the "Reno-Carson-Vegas Complex", inflicting tremendous enemy personnel and material losses. General Pollock, demonstrating calm courage under fire, inspired and aroused the fighting spirit of his men by his continual presence in forward areas inspecting positions and observing and directing operations. His skillful assessment of enemy strength and vulnerabilities and close liaison with commanders at all echelons promoted unified effort, engendered confidence, and contributed significantly to the first joint military endeavor of the United Nations. General Pollock's eminent achievements and exemplary actions reflect utmost credit upon himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of the military service."

Department of the Army, General Orders No. 59
Distinguished Service Medal - Army (DSM)

1 service star
Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal
Second Nicaraguan Campaign Medal
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)

4 service stars
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
National Defense Service Medal (NDSM)
Period:
Korean War (1950-1953)

3 service stars
Korean Service Medal (KSM)

Sources