Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded for:

Operation Galvanic

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of all Marine Corps troops in action against enemy Japanese forces on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, from 20 to 22 November 1943. Although severely shocked by an exploding enemy shell soon after landing at the pier and suffering from a serious, painful leg wound which had become infected, Col. Shoup fearlessly exposed himself to the terrific and relentless artillery, machinegun, and rifle fire from hostile shore emplacements. Rallying his hesitant troops by his own inspiring heroism, he gallantly led them across the fringing reefs to charge the heavily fortified island and reinforce our hard-pressed, thinly held lines. Upon arrival on shore, he assumed command of all landed troops and, working without rest under constant, withering enemy fire during the next 2 days, conducted smashing attacks against unbelievably strong and fanatically defended Japanese positions despite innumerable obstacles and heavy casualties. By his brilliant leadership, daring tactics, and selfless devotion to duty, Col. Shoup was largely responsible for the final decisive defeat of the enemy, and his indomitable fighting spirit reflects great credit upon the U.S. Naval Service."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff of a Marine Division prior to and during operations against the enemy forces on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands, from 15 June to 1 August 1944. Prior to the operation, Colonel Shoup, through his outstanding organizing ability, sound judgment, and expert knowledge of all units of the division, was highly instrumental in welding the various units into a mutually supporting team. During the Saipan operation, Colonel Shoup by his energy, attention to detail, brilliant leadership, and knowledge of our own and the enemy situation at all times, was responsible for the smooth functioning of the many and varied activities of the division. He visited front line units at great personal risk in order to keep abreast of the problems confronting the regimental commanders. He performed comparable duties during the Tinian operation, displaying the same brilliant leadership. Colonel Shoup's exemplary performance of a difficult task was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Shoup is authorized to wear the Combat "V".)"

This award was obtained with an bronze "V" for Valor device to be attached on the ribbon of the award.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Operations and Training Officer of the SECOND Marine Division during the period 15 September 1942 to 7 November 1943. Colonel Shoup, during this period, effectively planned and coordinated the training of the units of the SECOND Marine Division. His comprehensive grasp of the tactics and logistics of both land and amphibious operations; his originality, energy, initiative, and whole-hearted devotion to duty; his comprehensive knowledge of weapons and equipment, and untiring efforts to insure the procurement of the best types available, were, to a very great extent, responsible for the high states of training and efficiency of the Division and contributed immeasurably to the achievement of the victory at Tarawa. His outstanding performance of duty during the period of training leading up to the action on Tarawa was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

This award was obtained in the form of an Gold Star to be attached on the ribbon of the first award as well as an bronze "V" for Valor device.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Colonel

Unit:

2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

This award was obtained in the form of an Gold Star to be attached on the ribbon of the first award.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

w/ "Base" clasp

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

w/ 4 stars

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

w/ 1 star