Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class James Edward Jackson, Jr. (MCSN: 1137593), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Automatic Rifleman in Company I, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 17 May 1951. When a numerically superior enemy force effected a penetration of his unit’s position during a vicious attack, Private First Class Jackson boldly manned his forward post which became cut off from the remainder of the unit and, courageously braving the fierce hail of hostile automatic-weapons and small-arms fire, steadfastly held his ground, delivering accurate fire into the enemy’s ranks. Firing continually, he succeeded in pinning down large numbers of the enemy and effectively denied them the opportunity to exploit the penetration. Although painfully and seriously wounded during the action, he gallantly continued to engage the enemy who virtually surrounded his position until his comrades counterattacked and routed the hostile force. While helping to drive the enemy completely from the position, he was severely wounded a second time, but resolutely chose to remain with his unit until he was ordered to the rear where he subsequently succumbed to his wounds. By his indomitable fighting spirit, valiant determination and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds, Private First Class Jackson contributed materially to the successful securing of the friendly position and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

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