Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

Chief of Staff, HQ, 77th Infantry Division "Statue of Liberty", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

1944

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Chief of Staff, 77th Infantry Division, in action at Guam on 6 August 1944. While making a reconnaissance for a new division command post, accompanied by an officer and an enlisted man, Colonel McNair encountered three Japanese soldiers in a native hut about three hundred yards from the main road. Cautiously approaching the entrance to the hut. Colonel McNair fired several times and directed the movements and fire of his companion. The Japanese in the hut returned the fire and during the exchange Colonel McNair was struck and killed. Colonel McNair's gallantry, courage and aggressive and unhesitating leadership was an inspiration to his companions and to the entire Division."

Posthumously awarded. Headquarters, 77th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 22

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

Chief of Staff, HQ, 77th Infantry Division "Statue of Liberty", U.S. Army

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff, 77th Infantry Division, from 8 June 1943 to 6 August 1944. Joining the organization at a time when many changes in command and staff personnel had just been completed, Colonel McNair, with tireless enthusiasm, tact, and leadership, worked continuously to make the unit a well-coordinated and smooth working team. His untiring zeal and extraordinary ability, his constant supervision of the many details preparatory to a landing were of incalculable value to the division in the operation on Guam and contributed in an extraordinary degree to the success of that operation and to the war effort in the Pacific Ocean Area."

Posthumously awarded.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

Chief of Staff, HQ, 77th Infantry Division "Statue of Liberty", U.S. Army