Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    24th Marines

    Division:

    4th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    February 1 & 2, 1944

    SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief Pacific Forces: Serial 2788 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)

    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.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    June 15 – July 27, 1944

    Heroes U.S. Marine Corps, 1861 – 1955: Jane Blakeney

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Captain Frank E. Garretson (MCSN: 0-7639), United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the Pacific Theater of Operations during the period from 15 June through 27 July 1944.