Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

First Lieutenant (Lieutenant)

Unit:

1st Battalion, 1st Marine Division

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Walter F. Shaffner (MCSN: 0-15301), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism while attached to the First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, inaction Peleliu Island in the Palau Group, on 1 October 1944. Leading his tank-supported platoon against a steep coral ridge studded with caves and concrete machine-gun emplacements, First Lieutenant Shaffner pushed relentlessly forward despite terrific enemy mortar, machine-gun and antitank fire which inflicted heavy casualties on his unit. Held up at a narrow causeway by the failure of communication with his armored vehicles, he climbed to a dangerous prominent vantage point on the turret of the leading tank, quickly organizing the fire of both vehicles and infantry, and, when his tanks still were unable to cross the fire-swept passage, placed himself at the head of the platoon and fearlessly led his men in a daring sweep through the devastating rain of fire and on to the objective. Repeatedly exposing himself to the enemy's unceasing barrage, he disposed his men for defense of the ridge, then organized and led a detail back across the causeway to bring up urgently needed ammunition. Mortally wounded while boldly carrying supplies to the most forward elements of his unit, First Lieutenant Shaffner had successfully fulfilled and extremely vital and hazardous mission and, by his determined aggressiveness, indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor in the face of terrific opposition, had contributed essentially to the ultimate conquest of the important Japanese stronghold. His forceful leadership and unwavering devotion to duty throughout reflect 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 004426 (January 18, 1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)