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For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the
risk of his own life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding
Officer of all Marine Corps Troops in action against enemy Japanese
forces on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, from November 20
to 22, 1943. Although severely shocked by an exploding enemy shell soon
after landing at the pier, and suffering from a serious, painful leg
wound which had become infected, Colonel Shoup fearlessly exposed
himself to the terrific, relentless artillery, machine-gun and rifle
fire from hostile shore emplacements and, rallying his hesitant troops
by his own inspiring heroism, gallantly led them across the fringing
reefs to charge the heavily fortified island and reinforce our
hard-pressed, thinly held lines. Upon arrival on shore, he assumed
command of all landed troops and, working without rest under constant,
withering enemy fire during the next two days, conducted smashing
attacks against unbelievable strong and fanatically defended Japanese
positions despite innumerable obstacles and heavy casualties. By his
brilliant leadership, daring tactics and selfless devotion to duty,
Colonel Shoup was largely responsible for the final, decisive defeat of
the enemy, and his indomitable fighting spirit reflects great credit
upon the United States Naval Service.
Harry S Truman
President of the United States |
