The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Platoon Sergeant Roland F. Kachinski (MCSN: 256111), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Parachute Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, during the assault on enemy Japanese forces at Gavutu, Solomon Islands, on 7 August 1942. When the right flank of Company A was subjected to withering fire from a hostile machine gun, Platoon Sergeant Kachinski, on his own courageous initiative, launched a lone attack against the enemy. Effectively throwing grenades and engaging in perilous hand-to-hand combat, he fought with such tenacious determination and fearless aggressiveness that he was able to destroy the gun position before receiving fatal wounds. Platoon Sergeant Kachinski’s relentless fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.