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 Norman J. H. Anthonopoulas (MCSN: 528018), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against Japanese forces on Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands on 20 November 1943. Assigned as a runner for the Regimental Commander, Private First Class Anthonopoulas braved withering enemy fire by racing across an open space to silence two machine gun positions. Steadfastly remaining exposed to intense enemy fire, he continued to press the attack and destroyed an enemy bunker by dropping hand grenades into the openings. Noticing that his Commander was wounded, he again risked his life in assisting in the rescue. Private First Class Anthonopoulas’ extreme bravery, indomitable fighting spirit, and complete devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Action Date:

    June 23 & 27, 1944
    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 5845 (January 19, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Private First Class Norman J. H. Anthonopoulas (MCSN: 528018), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion in action against the enemy on Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 23 June 1944. While a member of a stretcher bearing detail which was pinned down by heavy enemy fire, Private First Class Anthonopoulas, defying the enemy fire, worked himself to the position where a seriously wounded Marine lay and succeeded in rescuing him. Again, on 27 June 1944, Private First Class Anthonopoulas voluntarily advanced to an extreme forward position to rescue another wounded Marine who might otherwise have perished at the hands of the attacking enemy. His courage and defiance of enemy fire were an inspiration to all stretcher bearers and were responsible for the saving of several lives. His devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.