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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 Platoon Sergeant Waldo D. Humphrey (MCSN: 333985), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 2 March 1945. When a platoon of Japanese troops under attack by his group set off a large store of explosives within their cave, Platoon Sergeant Humphrey braved smoke and flames to move to the edge of the still crumbling cliff and succeeded in rescuing two wounded men, one of whom had been buried by the debris. Quickly accounting for all his men, he began to reorganize the perimeter defense of the command post and, braving small arms fire, led badly shaken but uninjured men to new positions. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Platoon Sergeant Humphrey and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Action Date:

    August 23, 1943
    Commander South Pacific: Serial 002172 (October 17, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Waldo D. Humphrey (MCSN: 333985), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as member of a reconnaissance patrol landed by submarine on enemy held Shortland Island, Solomon Islands on 23 August 1943. Voluntarily and with utter disregard of personal safety, Private First Class Humphrey embarked upon an extremely dangerous mission into Japanese occupied territory for the purpose of securing vital information with regard to terrain, hydrographic conditions and strength and disposition of hostile forces. Undeterred by the isolation of his position and by the full knowledge that no assistance could be expected from outside sources, he nevertheless remained on the island for three days, successfully carrying out an important assignment under hazardous conditions where discovery by Japanese troops would undoubtedly have resulted in his capture or death. His courageous devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.