Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    14th Marines

    Division:

    4th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    March 2, 1945

    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 46173

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Harry P. Iachino (MCSN: 505208), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Member of an Artillery Forward Observation Team of Battery A, First Battalion, Fourteenth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 2 March 1945. During this hazardous and important campaign, Private First Class Iachino was assigned the mission of transmitting fire commands from the Forward Observer to the Battalion Fire Direction Center. During the night of 2 March, when the entire team was wounded by grenades from hostile troops, he steadfastly refused to be evacuated and remained at his post to take over the actual direction of the fire as well as transmission of commands. Reorganizing the remainder of his team, he continued to provide effective support for the infantry with defensive fires during the night and with preparation fires of the following morning. By his courage, determination and devotion to duty, Private First Class Iachino upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.