Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
John
Hamilton (AKA: Sterling Hayden)
March 26, 1916

–

May 23, 1986

Born:

Upper Montclair

, 

New Jersey

Born Sterling Relyea Walter, Americans know him best as Sterling Hayden, Hollywood actor and star of nearly 60 motion pictures including “Dr. Strangelove.” Already a budding star before World War II, Hayden joined the Marine Corps and was convinced by one of William Donovan’s sons to join the Office of Strategic Services (OSS). Due his personal fame, he changed his name to John Hamilton, and it was under that name he operated clandestinely in Italy to open sea lanes and other dangerous work including running guns through German lines to the Yugoslav partisans and parachuting into fascist Croatia..

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    Office of Strategic Services

    Action Date:

    December 24, 1943 – January 2, 1944
    Headquarters, Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 145 (July 31, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Captain John Hamilton (AKA: Sterling Hayden) (MCSN: 0-22085), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action while serving with the Office of Strategic Services in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations from 24 December 1943 to 2 January 1944. Captain Hamilton displayed great courage in making hazardous sea voyage in enemy infested waters and reconnaissance’s through enemy held areas. His conduct reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Armed Forces.