Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major LeRoy P. Hunt, Jr. (MCSN: 0-6010), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 15 June 1944. Assuming command of the Second Battalion after the Commanding Officer and Executive Officer had become casualties, Major Hunt personally reconnoitered the Battalion’s position before dark and, skillfully reorganizing and deploying his units throughout that night and the following two days, contributed materially to the excellent fighting efficiency of his Battalion in successfully repulsing numerous Japanese counterattacks and in annihilating several hundred of the enemy. His courage, leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel

    Action Date:

    November 20 – December 25, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Lieutenant Colonel LeRoy P. Hunt, Jr. (MCSN: 0-6010), United States Marine Corps, for meritorious service while commanding a Marine Infantry Battalion, reinforced from 20 November 1945 to 25 December 19456, in a sector of the Tientsin Area, China. Colonel Hunt demonstrated an unwavering determination in the expeditious fulfillment of a vital mission. By his diligent, frequent and detailed inspections, he was largely responsible for the effective deployment and efficiency of his forces on the Peking-Mukden railroad. Through his indefatigable efforts, the sector of the railroad under his command was kept open. His resolute tenacity and mature judgment facilitated the speedy repatriation of Japanese forces in his area. His leadership was an inspiration to those of his command and his exemplary devotion to duty and actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.