Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Marshall
Harlan
Austin
June 14, 1911

–

July 19, 2005

Marshall Austin graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1935. He retired as a Captain in the U.S. Navy.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander [then Lieutenant Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Redfin (SS-272)

    Action Date:

    May 26 – July 14, 1944
    Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 079 (January 5, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Marshall Harlan Austin (NSN: 0-75015), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. REDFIN (SS-272), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, during the period from 26 May to 14 July 1944. Conducting vitally important reconnaissance, Commander Austin successfully accomplished a special mission and, in addition, maneuvered his vessel to strike against the enemy, sinking a large tanker and transport totaling 16,100 tons and damaging another transport of 8,300 tons. By skillful evasion tactics, he successfully escaped enemy countermeasures and returned his ship safe to port. His professional skill, indomitable fighting spirit and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander Austin and the United States Naval Service.

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander [then Lieutenant Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Redfin (SS-272)

    Action Date:

    March 19 – May 2, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 01902 (July 16, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Marshall Harlan Austin (NSN: 0-75015), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. REDFIN (SS-272), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, during the period 19 March 1944 to 2 May 1944. Skillfully maneuvering his ship into favorable positions to strike at enemy shipping, Commander Austin launched a series of bold, audacious attacks in the face of heavy and persistent hostile countermeasures, to sink one 1,500-ton destroyer and four merchant ships totaling over 28,000 tons. Fighting his ship with courage and determination against the devastating follow-up fire of the Japanese, he expertly evaded the deadly missiles of the enemy and succeeded in bringing his vessel safe to port without serious injury to his gallant crew. His steadfast valor, professional skill and unswerving devotion to duty served as an inspiration to his officers and men and reflect the highest credit upon Commander Austin, the REDFIN and the United States Naval Service.