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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Jack R. Stambaugh (MCSN: 330350), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on the night of November 22, 1943. Engaged with his company in repulsing a bitter enemy counterattack, Private Stambaugh discovered a wounded comrade in an isolated position about to be attacked by four Japanese soldiers and, in the face of almost certain death, rushed forward and killed the entire group with is rifle and bayonet. Seriously wounded by the sword of an enemy officer during the fierce hand to hand fighting, Private Stambaugh died before aid could reach him. His daring aggressiveness and extremely heroic conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    6th Marines

    Division:

    2d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    November 22, 1943
    Commander In Chief Pacific Forces: Serial 917 (June 19, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private Jack R. Stambaugh (MCSN: 330350), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 22 November 1943. Observing four Japanese soldiers attacking a wounded Marine in an isolated position during the height of a fierce enemy night counterattack, Private Stambaugh unhesitatingly risked his life to race to the aid of his helpless comrade and, closing in for a brief, savage encounter, killed all four of the enemy with his rifle and bayonet before succumbing to a neck wound inflicted by a saber-wielding Japanese officer. By his intrepid spirit, courageous action in the face of heavy odds and unselfish devotion to duty, Private Stambaugh served as an inspiration to his fellow Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.