Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Sergeant Harold G. Pierce (MCSN: 856755), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Leader of an Engineer Demolition Squad of Company C, Fifth Engineer Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 21 February 1945. When the infantry’s advance was repeatedly checked by devastating fire from heavily fortified emplacements on Mount Suribachi, Sergeant Pierce courageously led his squad against the hostile positions. Undaunted by the lack of adequate fire support, he armed himself with an abandoned automatic rifle and, after delivering concentrated fire on a position, rushed forward and placed a demolition charge. Continuing these tactics throughout the day, Sergeant Pierce personally assaulted and destroyed six of the Japanese strongholds although seriously wounded during this action by an enemy grenade. His daring initiative and skill under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received