The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Assistant Cook Walter J. Fufidio (MCSN: 806012), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a volunteer replacement from an artillery battalion serving with the Second Battalion, Thirteenth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 23 March 1945. With the entire assault company pinned down by shattering hostile shellfire emanating from a heavily fortified pillbox commanding the line of advance, Assistant Cook Fufidio fearlessly exposed himself to the enemy’s withering barrage to gain an advantageous position for delivering his effective fire against the emplacement. In the absence of appropriate cover, he valiantly stood erect and, despite a severe wound received during the fierce action, manned his rifle with deadly accuracy, pouring a steady stream of neutralizing shellfire against the position which enabled infantrymen to charge and wipe out the resistance. By his daring initiative, valiant fighting spirit and dauntless perseverance maintained in the face of tremendous odds, Assistant Cook Fufidio contributed materially to the success of our forces in capturing this vital hostile stronghold and his valiant devotion to duty throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.