Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Platoon Sergeant Harry W. Pinto (MCSN: 238434), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, Third Battalion, Fourth Marine Regiment, at Longaskawayan Point, Bataan, Philippine Islands on 25 January 1942. Despite a painful bullet wound through the wrist which Sergeant Pinto received during an attack by his unit on a strong enemy position, this gallant non-commissioned officer remained under heavy hostile machine gun fire to assist in the evacuation of wounded from the front lines to sheltered positions. Later in the engagement Sergeant Pinto demonstrated courage and leadership of a high order by assisting in the organization of a group which successfully carried out a hazardous mission during the course of the battle. The disregard for personal safety and the unselfish courage exhibited by this non-commissioned officer, constituted an example which had no small effect in his organization’s success in the operation.

Awards Received

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Platoon Sergeant

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (Philippine Islands)

    Action Date:

    May 6, 1942 – 1945

    NARA Database: Records of World War II Prisoners of War, created, 1942 – 1947

    Platoon Sergeant Harry W. Pinto (MCSN: 238434), United States Marine Corps, was captured by the Japanese after the fall of Corregidor, Philippine Islands, on 6 May 1942, and was held as a Prisoner of War until returned to U.S. Military control in 1945.