Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class Louis W. Trafton (MCSN: 484144), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 4 July 1944. A gallant and determined fighter, Private Trafton fearlessly and single-handedly charged into an enemy cave containing approximately fifteen Japanese soldiers and annihilated the entire group. On another occasion, he forced his way into a cave and destroyed five of the enemy. Throughout the entire campaign, he distinguished himself on repeated patrols in front of the lines by destroying several machine guns and killing numerous hostile riflemen. His resolute fortitude in the face of danger, indomitable spirit and unwavering devotion to duty reflect he highest credit upon Private Trafton and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    24th Marines

    Division:

    4th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    February 28, 1945
    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 32313 (July 19, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Louis Wilbur Trafton (MCSN: 484144), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Platoon Sergeant in a Rifle Platoon serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-fourth Marines, Fourth Marines Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 28 February 1945. Volunteering to go in search of two of his group who had become separated from the platoon, Sergeant Trafton unhesitatingly proceeded into enemy territory and finding the two members of his platoon and another Marine wounded, returned to his own line for aid. Prevented b enemy machine gun fire from advancing with stretcher bearers he daringly maneuvered six of his men forward and in the face of withering hostile small arms and mortar fire, succeeded in placing an automatic rifle team in position to neutralize the enemy’s fire, thus directing the removal of the wounded men to safety. By his inspiring leadership and great personal valor in the face of grave peril, Sergeant Trafton upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.