Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Company K, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division "Fighting Fourth", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

August 20th, 1946

Awarded for:

Operation Detachment

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company K, Third Battalion, Twenty-fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19-27 February 1945. When all officers of a rifle company had become casualties and the members widely scattered by merciless Japanese artillery fire, Captain Breakenridge immediately assumed command, quickly rallied the disorganized company and led his men to a position where they could effectively support the advance of his landing team to high ground above the gun-studded cliffs. During the hours of darkness on 22 February, he personally attacked two of the enemy who had infiltrated our lines and, although himself painfully wounded, killed one and severely wounded the other. Refusing evacuation, he loyally remained with his company and, by his own fortitude and inspiring courage, sustained the morale of his men throughout the night. With the assault units sustaining heavy casualties under devastating machine-gun fire from concealed Japanese positions during the attack north of Quarry Number one on 27 February, he personally reconnoitered the areas to his front and directed artillery and mortar fire which destroyed the hostile emplacements. Occupying a constantly exposed position, he led his men in a continuation of the attack until mortally wounded by enemy fire. His valiant leadership, daring combat tactics and devotion to duty throughout this period of fierce action reflect the highest credit upon Captain Breakenridge and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 35253, posthumously awarded

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)