The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class John Carl Buh (MCSN: 859053), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Peleliu in the Palau Group, on 27 September 1944. Providing rifle cover for the lead tank during a furious assault on an important enemy-held ridge strongly fortified with pillboxes and caves in the northern tip of the island, Private First Class Buh fought his weapon with resolute determination until his tank was knocked out by a powerful Bangalore torpedo hurled from a cave position and the tank crew suffered heavy casualties from the cave’s automatic fire which was pouring out in a continuous barrage. Fearlessly disregarding all personal danger, Private First Class Buh immediately moved out ahead of his vehicle and, delivering a steady, unceasing stream of deadly bullets into the mouth of the cave, succeeded in diverting the enemy’s fire long enough to enable flame throwers to advance and reduce the Japanese position before he was fatally struck down. An indomitable fighter, Private First Class Buh, by his daring initiative, unfaltering skill and aggressive fighting spirit in the face of fanatic opposition, contributed essentially to the ultimate conquest of this vital Japanese stronghold, and his great personal valor throughout the period of fierce hostilities reflects the highest credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.