The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Sergeant Hubert J. Faltyn (MCSN: 300321), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company D, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 13 to 16 March 1945. When all company officers had been rendered casualties in a drive on formidable and well-concealed enemy positions on 13 March, Sergeant Faltyn unhesitatingly assumed command of the Company. Fearlessly running from platoon to platoon to give orders and encourage his men in the face of intense hostile fire from numerous caves on high ground to the front, he reorganized the company and boldly led it forward to seize the objective. Although wounded in a fierce hand grenade exchange the next day, he directed the building of a road leading to the Japanese positions, organized tanks for support and personally led his men in a long advance against a series of hostile caves and pillboxes. Sustaining wounds a second time on 15 March, he again remained on the field of battle and personally led his company up a rocky hill through deadly rifle and mortar fire. Gaining the objective, he skillfully organized a defensive position and inspired his depleted forces to hold their ground until relieved the following day. His courageous leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.