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 Second Lieutenant John B. Doyle, Jr. (MCSN: 0-8692), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Mortar Platoon Leader of Company H, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during the offensive action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Matanikau River, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 2 November 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, Second Lieutenant Doyle bravely descended a steep, wooded hill in the face of terrific enemy fire to attend the wounded. After an enemy shell killed one of the injured men whom he was carrying up the hill, Second Lieutenant Doyle heroically continued his task and succeeded in rescuing three of his wounded comrades. His great personal valor and outstanding 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:

    Second Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    August 7 & 8, 1942
    Commander South Pacific: Serial 1113

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant John B. Doyle, Jr. (MCSN: 0-8692), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Mortar Platoon Leader of Company H, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Tulagi Island Area, on 7 and 8 August 1942. Making an initial attack against strong enemy defending forces, Second Lieutenant Doyle, despite enemy grenades and heavy rifle and machine-gun fire, resolutely held his position against a hostile counterattack, thereby protecting the flank of the Marine sector. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, he then led his men in hand-to-hand combat and, after inflicting severe losses, forced the Japanese to withdraw. His brilliant leadership and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.