Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    4th Tank Battalion

    Division:

    4th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    June 16, 1944

    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 12532

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Vincent A. McDonald (MCSN: 406885), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Tank Commander of Company A, Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 16 June 1944. Abandoning his tank after it was put out of action by enemy fire at the height of the attack, Sergeant McDonald braved intense hostile artillery and machine-gun fire to carry a wounded crew member to a place of comparative safety. Although wounded himself during this hazardous undertaking, he steadfastly completed his mission and undoubtedly saved the life of the stricken Marine. His courage, initiative and zealous concern for the welfare of another were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.