Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Howard Ryan (MCSN: 1036624), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Squad Leader of Company I, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 7 October 1952. Assigned the mission of assaulting a portion of a steep hill, strongly defended by well-entrenched enemy troops, Sergeant Ryan vigorously led his squad up the slope during a twilight attack in the face of intense enemy small-arms and grenade fire. When his unit was pinned down by hostile machine-gun fire, he quickly picked up an automatic rifle from a wounded comrade and single-handedly charged the emplacement, hurling grenades and firing his weapon to silence the machine gun and permit the squad’s advance into the trench line to the crest of the hill. Continually exposing himself to the devastating fire, he bravely moved forward to clear out bunkers and entrenched enemy positions until all resistance had ceased in his zone of action. With his unit subjected to a heavy mortar and artillery barrage after securing the objective, he immediately proceeded to reorganize and resupply his men in preparation for the defense of the position. Mortally wounded by enemy fire while moving bout the area, Sergeant Ryan, by his outstanding leadership, courageous initiative and aggressive fighting spirit, served to inspire all who observed him. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

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