Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant (MC) Edward Lillo Crain, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Surgeon of the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands, on 9 May 1945. Observing a number of untreated casualties lying in a valley to his front, Lieutenant Crain braved heavy machine-gun and mortar fire which had prevented stretcher bearers from reaching the wounded men, to move into the valley and administer first aid. Despite intensified fire from enemy-held caves surrounding three sides of the valley, he courageously moved from man to man under constant observation from the enemy and administered medical aid to all the men, remaining in this exposed position for over five hours. When an amphibian tractor was finally able to break through, he personally assisted in carrying the wounded and ably supervised the evacuation until the last casualty had been moved to safety. By his professional ability, fortitude and intrepid spirit in the face of intense hostile fire, Lieutenant Crain upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    September 15 – 29, 1944

    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 375 (May 1948)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC) Edward Lillo Crain, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action as Battalion Surgeon, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, III Amphibious Corps, FMF, at the Palau Islands, from 15 to 29 September 1944. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.