The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Platoon Sergeant George Frank Beranek (MCSN: 394620), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as a Tank Platoon Leader serving with Company A, Sixth Tank Battalion, SIXTH Marine Division, during action on enemy Japanese-held Okinawa, Ryukyu Group, 12 May 1945. When his tank tipped into a shell hole while spearheading a tank-infantry attack on a strong enemy position, Platoon Sergeant Beranek unhesitatingly left the security of his tank and, braving intense hostile machine-gun fire, shackled his towing cable to another tank. When the cable snapped, he attempted to shackle it a second time, persevering under a barrage of Japanese bullets until he fell, mortally wounded by enemy machine-gun fire. So far had Platoon Sergeant Beranek advanced toward the hostile position, that four days of vicious fighting were required for the Marines to pass beyond his tank and secure the objective. His indomitable spirit, daring initiative and unwavering devotion to duty were inspiring to his platoon and reflect the highest credit upon Platoon Sergeant Beranek and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.