Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Major

    Batallion:

    Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron 132 (VMSB-132)

    Regiment:

    Marine Air Group 14 (MAG-14)

    Division:

    1st Marine Aircraft Wing

    Action Date:

    November 10 – 15, 1942

    SPOT AWARD (1943): Serial 0177 (SofN Signed April 14, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Major Joseph Sailer, Jr. (MCSN: 0-4675), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-TWO (VMSB-132), Marine Air Group FOURTEEN (MAG-14), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Guadalcanal Area of the Solomons Islands from 10 to 15 November 1942. Zealously seeking out and engaging the enemy under extremely hazardous conditions, Major Sailer led six attacks in spite of intense aerial opposition and anti-aircraft fire, scoring direct hits on a Japanese battleship of the Kongo Class, a heavy cruiser, a destroyer and two transports. His determined fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty contributed decisively to our success in routing the Japanese forces. His actions at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.