The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Hugh V. Denton (MCSN: 337843), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas, on 16 June 1944. Assigned to cover a friendly machine gun located at a strategic point in our front lines, Private First Class Denton remained steadfast at his post during a series of Japanese counterattacks, fighting with resolute skill until the enemy, attempting to force a break in our lines, concentrated the full strength of shattering mortar, machine-gun and tank fire on his machine gun and scored a direct shell-hit which silenced the powerful weapon. Dashing from his fox hole, he defied the terrific volleys from all sides to take position at the gun emplacement and, directing a steady stream of devastating rifle fire at the oncoming Japanese forces, held them off with decisive valor until he fell, instantly killed by a savage burst of hostile gunfire. An indomitable fighter, Private First Class Denton, by his aggressive initiative, tenacious determination and unwavering courage in the face of tremendous odds, contributed essentially to the ultimate conquest of this important Japanese stronghold, and his self-sacrificing devotion to duty reflects the highest credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.