Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William A. Garron (MCSN: 467400), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Point of a Patrol of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Mariana Islands on 14 August 1944. Courageously proceeding ahead of his patrol, Private First Class Garron voluntarily advanced toward an enemy ambush to draw their fire and force them to reveal their position. After locating their exact location, he boldly rushed into the ambush and succeeded in killing all five of the enemy. By his bravery, daring initiative and devotion to duty, Private First Class Garron upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    21st Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    February 28, 1945
    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 50938

    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 Corporal William A. Garron (MCSN: 467400), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. When a gap in our lines made it necessary to move reserves from an adjacent unit into position, Corporal Garron and a comrade skillfully acted as guides to the occupying unit during darkness. When several officers were wounded and the remainder of his column was forced to take cover from close-range enemy fire, he immediately gained the assistance of his companion and, assaulting the hostile positions, annihilated all five of the enemy, thereby enabling his column to continue its advance and occupy the gap in the lines. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.