Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    25th Marines

    Division:

    4th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    July 7, 1944

    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 15909 (January 3, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Lewis H. Hutchins (MCSN: 470443), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Mariana Islands on 7 July 1944. Dispatched to lead a patrol on an extremely dangerous mission immediately after assuming command of his squad when the leader became a casualty, Corporal Hutchins fearlessly advanced into Japanese held territory and carried out his perilous assignment in the face of tremendous odds. Pinned down by intense, concentrated hostile fire while returning from the fierce engagement he calmly and efficiently directed the withdrawal of his men while he remained alone with a wounded comrade and, pouring a steady stream of return fire against the emplacement, steadfastly held his position until help arrived. By his daring initiative, inspiring leadership and courageous devotion to duty at great risk to his life, Corporal Hutchins contributed to the success of our operations against the vital hostile stronghold and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.