Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Hector DeZayas (MCSN: 0-4763), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the battle of Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on November 21, 1943. Ordered to execute a reconnaissance in force of Japanese positions, Lieutenant Colonel de Zayas’ battalion was halted during a river crossing by overwhelming fire from Japanese bunker positions concealed in the jungles and swamps. Boldly advancing to the forefront of the battle and finding that his force was opposed by a reinforced hostile position, he vigorously engaged the Japanese with a part of his battalion and by-passes the enemy’s position with the remainder. Proceeding with his reconnaissance, he discovered a second Japanese battalion in support of the first and, after determining the hostile scheme of defense and locating the key defensive positions, disengaged his battalion from action with minimum casualties. By his valiant leadership and brilliant tactics, Lieutenant Colonel de Zayas gained valuable information which made possible the destruction of the enemy’s fortifications prior to the regimental attack, and his inspiring conduct throughout the operation was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    3d Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    July 21 – 26, 1944

    Commander in Chief Pacific Forces: Serial 004236 (January 4, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel Hector DeZayas (MCSN: 0-4763), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the assault on the left flank of the Division Beachhead on Guam, Mariana Islands, from 21 to 26 July 1944. Throughout this vital period of bitter assault fighting, Lieutenant Colonel DeZayas valiantly led his Battalion toward its objective, moving upward over rough and rugged terrain in the face of determined, fierce enemy opposition and maintaining an aggressive and vigorous attack despite one particularly heavy Japanese counterattack which considerably depleted his forces. Arriving at his assigned position and aware that another strong hostile counterattack was imminent, he unhesitatingly proceeded to his front lines to dispose his defenses and encourage his men and, during his courageous tour of inspection, was killed by a Japanese rifleman. Lieutenant Colonel DeZayas’ inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and tenacious devotion to duty under extremely perilous conditions reflect great credit upon himself, his heroic command and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.