Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Francis R. Foley, Jr. (MCSN: 309205), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Patrol Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Nineteenth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, on 26 July 1944. Ordered to organize a patrol to locate and drive the Japanese from the surrounding ridges, Corporal Foley led his men against the hostile position in the face of heavy enemy fire and, although sustaining a wound during this action, continued to direct his patrol in attacking and destroying a Japanese position which had been harassing his company. Shortly thereafter, he again led a patrol in a search for wounded Marines and, encountering enemy machine-gun fire, quickly attacked and wiped out a five-man machine gun nest without casualties to his men. By his skill, leadership and devotion to duty, Corporal Foley upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received