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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Thomas D. Pollard (MCSN: 0-14726/289992), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while a member of the First Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands on 8 October 1942. During operations against the enemy at the mouth of the Matanikau River, Sergeant Pollard successfully led a seven man patrol between two strong points in the Japanese positions. Although they were subjected to heavy fire while carrying out their mission, the success of the patrol enabled Sergeant Pollard’s company to advance farther toward the enemy lines. His heroic devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    1st Marine Raider Battalion

    Action Date:

    July 7, 8, 10, & 20, 1943
    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 517 (December 20, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant Thomas David Pollard (MCSN: 0-14726/289992), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against the enemy at Enogai Point, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 7, 8, 10, and 20 July 1943. Leading the charge of his platoon in successful attacks on enemy positions near Enogai, First Lieutenant Pollard was credited with shooting four enemy snipers who were concealed in trees. Two days later his platoon was ordered to flank hostile machine-gun positions which held up the advance of two companies. Lieutenant Pollard led his platoon through the jungle to the enemy’s flank and rear, knocked their gun positions out of action, killed many of the enemy and drove others into the sea. He then continued to lead the advance to the beach near Enogai Point where two machine guns were captured. In later attacks against well-entrenched forces defending Bairoko, his platoon penetrated enemy positions and advanced to within 200 yards of the harbor which was defended by a concentration of 90-mm. mortar fire. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by First Lieutenant Pollard on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.