Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Edwin A. Pollock (MCSN: 0-3745), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces Guadalcanal, during the night of 20 – 21 August 1942. When the troops under his command were subjected to a powerful and determined surprise attack at the Tenaru River, Lieutenant Colonel Pollock, immediately leaving his Command Post, advanced through severe enemy mortar and machine-gun fire to a position in the front line, and while thus constantly exposed to extreme danger, directed the defense of our forces for a period of twelve hours. As a result of his excellent judgment and superb leadership, the men under his command destroyed practically the entire enemy force of seven hundred. His outstanding courage and dauntless spirit of aggressiveness contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Major General

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    August 29, 1952 – June 15, 1953

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 59 (August 4, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Edwin A. Pollock (MCSN: 0-3745), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious service in a position of great responsibility as Commanding General, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in Korea, from 29 August 1952 to 15 June 1953. Displaying astute judgment and mastery of military science, he effected an integrated, flexible command and through assiduous exploitation of sound tactical concepts and forceful leadership, the command achieved outstanding success in bitter engagements on the “Reno-Carson-Vegas Complex”, inflicting tremendous enemy personnel and material losses. General Pollock, demonstrating calm courage under fire, inspired and aroused the fighting spirit of his men by his continual presence in forward areas inspecting positions and observing and directing operations. His skillful assessment of enemy strength and vulnerabilities and close liaison with commanders at all echelons promoted unified effort, engendered confidence, and contributed significantly to the first joint military endeavor of the United Nations. General Pollock’s eminent achievements and exemplary actions reflect utmost credit upon himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of the military service.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Colonel

    Action Date:

    December 1943

    Heroes U.S. Marine Corps, 1861 – 1955: Jane Blakeney

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Colonel Edwin A. Pollock (MCSN: 0-3745), United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the Pacific Theater of Operations in December 1943.