Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Division:

    2d Marine Aircraft Wing

    Action Date:

    January 25 – April 4, 1943

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Maurice J. Markham (MCSN: 447445), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of a communication section in the Second Marine Aircraft Wing on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 25 January to 4 April 1943. As line chief in charge of the tactical wire net of the Air Command, Private First Class Markham supervised the technical details of installing new lines and of repairing unserviceable lines and switchboards. During alerts and raids when Japanese planes were attacking our installations, he unhesitatingly left shelter and, in the face of enemy fire, repaired damaged communication lines with outstanding skill and determination. His cool courage and able leadership were an inspiration to his men and enabled them to improve communication facilities far ahead of schedule. His unswerving loyalty, keen initiative, and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.