Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Ernest L. DeFazio (MCSN: 284645), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Reconnaissance Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 19 September 1950. As a voluntary member of a thirteen-man patrol led by his company commander, Technical Sergeant DeFazio swam across the Han River to participate in a hazardous reconnaissance mission in enemy territory. When discover of their movement brought them under intense hostile small-arms and mortar fire and wounded the patrol leader, Technical Sergeant DeFazio bravely rallied the men and led them back across the river to safety. The information obtained and reported as a result of this dangerous assignment prevented a probable ambush of the main landing force and, by his outstanding leadership, Technical Sergeant DeFazio contributed materially to the overall success of the operations. His marked courage, daring initiative and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    26th Marines

    Division:

    5th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    February 22, 1945
    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 46919

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Ernest L. DeFazio (MCSN: 284645), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Guide of Company H, Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 22 February 1945. While moving up to attack hostile forces in the vicinity of Motoyama Airfield, Sergeant DeFazio’s platoon came under heavy enemy artillery fire while crossing an airplane taxiway. Although he and the leading elements of the unit had crossed to comparative safety, the remainder of the platoon was pinned down by the intense hostile fire. Despite the extreme personal peril involved, Sergeant DeFazio courageously rushed across the taxiway in the face of intense fire and rallied the remaining men to follow him back across the way and continue the attack against the Japanese. His cool courage and initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.