Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Major

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    26th Marines

    Division:

    5th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    February 22, 1945

    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 33363

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Major William R. Day (MCSN: 0-7341), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Operations Officer of the Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 22 February 1945. When his battalion was executing a passage of lines under extremely heavy mortar, artillery and small-arms fire during a driving rain, Major Day moved forward to direct the assault companies where forward movement had all but ceased due to accurate and intense Japanese fire. Proceeding fearlessly among the officers and men, Major Day, by his coolness and daringness, inspired his men to heroic efforts in the successful continuation of the assault before he himself was fatally wounded by enemy fire. His indomitable fighting spirit and valiant devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on Major Day and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.