The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Frank E. Garretson (MCSN: 0-7639), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the attack on Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, on 1 and 2 February 1944. Although twice wounded when his company sustained heavy casualties as a result of a blockhouse explosion, Captain Garretson refused evacuation and valiantly led the remained of his forces to the Battalion objective where, in the face of heavy enemy machine-gun and rifle fire, he directed scattered elements of the landing team in the reorganization and consolidation of the position. Later, after a coordinated attack by tanks and infantry had been ordered, he intercepted the tank support which had opened fire prematurely before reaching the line of departure and, fearlessly exposing himself to fire from the Japanese and from friendly tanks, succeeded in having the word relayed to cease all tank firing and at the same time gave instructions for the tank deployment during the impending attack. By his superb performance of duty and courageous leadership, Captain Garretson inspired all with whom he served and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.