Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Glenn S. Shaffer (MCSN: 801842), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Member of a wire Team of Company D, First Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 21 November 1943. When our assaulting units gained the center of the airstrip during the early morning following a furious battle with a fanatic enemy on D-Day, Private First Class Shaffer fearlessly crossed the fireswept area with a wire team to assist in the expeditious establishment and successful maintenance of the only wire communication from the forward assault companies to the Battalion Command Post and the 81-mm. mortar platoon, tirelessly carrying on despite the tremendous odds during our sustained drive across the landing field to the south coastline of the island. By his daring initiative, his dauntless perseverance and cool courage in the face of grave danger, Private First Class Shaffer enabled the forward elements to direct accurate, determined fire of the mortar platoon against the Japanese, and contributed materially to the success of our operations against this vital hostile stronghold. His unwavering devotion to duty throughout the fierce hostilities was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received