Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Sergeant Nolen M. Garrett (MCSN: 334563), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Section Leader in a Machine Gun Platoon of Company D, Second Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 9 March 1945. Although wounded a few moments before, Sergeant Garrett voluntarily advanced ahead of the lines in the face of heavy enemy fire to guide supporting tanks in locating furiously resisting and well-concealed Japanese emplacements. Unable to make his signals understood, he further exposed himself to hostile fire by climbing on the front of the tank and entering it through the escape hatch. Skillfully directing the tank and the two others accompanying it, he contributed materially to the success of the mission, refusing evacuation until the hostile strong point had been softened for further attacks. His courage and zealous devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Garrett and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    2d Marines (Reinforced)

    Division:

    2d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    November 10, 1942

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Nolen M. Garrett (MCSN: 334563), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of a machine gun squad with the Second Marines, Reinforced, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, 10 November 1942. When one of his crew was killed by hostile fire and the others forced to abandoned their task of preparing a machine gun emplacement, Private First Class Garrett, disregarding his own personal safety, voluntarily manned the gun alone. Displaying outstanding skill and initiative, he courageously maintained his position, directing intense fire at the enemy until he received a shoulder wound. His heroic conduct and steadfast devotion to duty under extremely adverse conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.