Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Anthony Casey Baranowski (MCSN: 342151), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Team Leader in a platoon of Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 27 February 1945. With the fire of two hostile machine guns disrupting the advance of his platoon, Corporal Baranowski boldly crawled forward to within five feet of the enemy emplacement and, spraying the position with rifle bullets, succeeded in silencing the first of these weapons. Proceeding to the second pillbox which was delivering heavy barrages into the Marine lines, Corporal Baranowski threw two hand grenades into the emplacement, sustaining a fatal wound from the last burst of fire emanating from the fortification just before the explosives neutralized it. His daring initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and heroic devotion to duty in the face of grave danger were important factors in the success of his platoon’s mission and reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Awards Received