Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    1st Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    September 19 – 20, 1944

    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 00597 (February 28, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Sergeant Jack R. Ainsworth (MCSN: 262705), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on enemy-held Peleliu, Palau Islands, 19 and 20 September 1944. After is company suffered heavy casualties during an assault on a strongly defended hill and was reorganizing under point-blank enemy artillery and mortar fire, First Sergeant Ainsworth organized company headquarters and the remnants of the first and second platoons. After reforming his unit, he led them to positions where they could bring direct fire to bear on hostile mortars which were inflicting heavy casualties on our troops. He remained in the forefront of his men during enemy counterattacks which were repelled with heavy losses to the enemy throughout the night. Always calm and aggressive, he frequently closed with the enemy in desperate hand-to-hand combat and, by his courage and coolness under fire, served as an inspiration to his men in holding the position during a perilous situation. His outstanding fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.