Navy Federal Credit Union

Marvin Henshaw grew up in a family of 13 boys, eight of which served in the military during World War II, seven of them in combat theaters. He was the only one of the boys to be killed in action, although his brothers earned a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, and three Purple Hearts.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Cavalry)

    Batallion:

    2d Squadron

    Regiment:

    5th Cavalry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division

    Action Date:

    February 29, 1944

    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 19 (March 8, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Cavalry) Marvin Jesse Henshaw (ASN: 1031248), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Troop G, 2d Squadron, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against enemy forces at Hayne Harbor, Los Negros, Admiralty Islands, on 29 February 1944. Lieutenant Henshaw led the first boat of the initial wave of landing craft invading the Admiralty Islands. Despite the presence of enemy machine gun positions and snipers on both sides of the narrow harbor entrance, he made his hazardous way within Hayne Harbor to effect a successful landing on the beach. Under his daring leadership, his troops immediately advanced. They played an important role in capturing the enemy airfield at Momote and in holding it against several sharp enemy attacks, Lieutenant Henshaw, the first ashore in this momentous landing, led the way with great fortitude, determination, and courage. His extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Cavalry Division, and the United States Army.