Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    7th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.) FMF

    Action Date:

    October 25, 1969

    Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class Cleatus A. Miller, Jr. (MCSN: 2530192), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as an Assistant Machine Gunner with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 25 October 1969, while Private First Class Miller’s machine-gun team was moving as the point element down a narrow valley during a search and destroy operation in the Que Son District of Quang Nam Province, all members of the team were seriously wounded by a heavy volume of automatic weapons and sniper fire from enemy soldiers occupying well-concealed positions in the dense vegetation. Realizing the need for immediate action to prevent casualties among the men following the lead element, Private First Class Miller, whose right leg was immobile, resolutely dragged himself forward, grasped the machine gun, and, painfully crawling across the fire-swept terrain to an advantageous position, commenced delivering rapid bursts against the hostile emplacements. His valiant move placed him in full view of the enemy soldiers who immediately concentrated all their fire on him. Nevertheless, he steadfastly remained in his hazardous position and continued his determined efforts until, weakened by extreme pain and loss of blood, he lapsed into unconsciousness. His heroic and resolute actions inspired all who observed him and provided the time vitally necessary for the first squad to regroup and assault through the North Vietnamese Army emplacements. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Private First Class Miller upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.