Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    21st Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    March 1, 1945

    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 49793

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Joseph G. Egan (MCSN: 0-22012), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 1 March 1942. Assuming command when his Company Commander and Executive Officer became casualties, First Lieutenant Egan led his unit in the attack across Motoyama Airfield Number Three. With the company pinned down by devastating enemy fire from tanks dug in as pillboxes, he made a through reconnaissance of the fire-swept area and then summoned a platoon of tanks. Personally leading the tanks in addition to directing the infantry support, he launched a determined attack and succeeded in annihilating the hostile positions, thereby enabling his company to continue its advance. By his outstanding courage and determination in the face of intense enemy fire, First Lieutenant Egan contributed materially to the success of the operation. His leadership throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.