Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class George Oliver White (MCSN: 331742), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Platoon Scout with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain on 3 January 1944. With his company pinned down Private First Class White daringly moved forward in the face of hostile rifle and machine gun fire through dense jungle undergrowth and after killing several of the Japanese with the fire of his own rifle, succeeded in silencing the enemy machine gun with hand grenades. By his heroic advance, he enabled his company to ascend the knoll held by the enemy and materially assisted in the advance of the battalion. His bold initiative and unselfish service were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    7th Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    January 14, 1944

    SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0689 (SofN Signed September 5, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class George Oliver White (MCSN: 331742), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as a Scout serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on 14 January 1944. When his platoon was pinned down by a withering hail of relentless enemy fire after he had led them to the crest of a hill, Private First Class White unhesitatingly made his way forward through the continuing barrage of machine-gun fire, mortars and hand grenades, in order to locate hostile positions and, subsequently leading three extremely hazardous assaults on enemy machine-gun emplacements, directed his men valiantly and with a aggressive determination until he was wounded during the third charge. Private First Class White’s inspiring leadership and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.