Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to First Lieutenant William J. Livingston (MCSN: 0-54728), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Commander of Reconnaissance Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 27 February 1953. Encountering a numerically superior enemy force employing automatic weapons and grenades while he was leading his platoon into a blocking position in support of another platoon occupying an ambush position well forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Livingston, although wounded during the initial assault, gallantly refused medical assistance and quickly organized and directed his unit in repelling the hostile attack. Sustaining additional wounds when the enemy placed heavy mortar and machine-gun fire upon his platoon as he was supervising the evacuation of wounded Marines, he continued to direct the removal of the stricken men and personally carried several of them under fire to a shelter. Continually operating the radio after his radioman became a casualty, he maintained communications with his company commander throughout the battle and directed accurate artillery and mortar fire upon the enemy. When the enemy launched a final assault on the remainder of his platoon, Second Lieutenant Livingston fearlessly exposed himself to the hail of withering fire to carry out a vigorous defense of the position, moving rapidly about the area to fire his carbine and to hurl grenades at every hostile group he encountered. Again refusing medical care when he was wounded a third time as the enemy withdrew, he expertly guided his unit back to friendly lines and assisted in carrying a stretcher, permitting himself to be evacuated only after he was assured that all of his men were within the main line of resistance. By his indomitable fighting spirit, marked fortitude and courageous leadership, Second Lieutenant Livingston served to inspire all who observed him and was instrumental in the success of his unit in inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received