The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross Medal to
Sergeant John J. Anderson
United States Marine Corps
Citation:
For extraordinary heroism while serving as Leader of a Rifle Squad in Company I, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in combat operations in support of the Republic of Vietnam on 27 October 1965. Sergeant Anderson led his reinforced squad on a patrol and during the ensuing action, by his personal leadership and professional skill, maneuvered his squad and effected a successful ambush upon the advance guard of a numerically superior enemy. By exercising complete control of his squad, he allowed his men to open fire only when maximum surprise and shock effect could be attained. The first volley of fire killed seven guerrillas, and three more were killed by grenades. Sergeant Anderson then directed the withdrawal of his squad and personally covered the move by firing his M79, killing five more enemy. While continuously exposing himself to heavy enemy fire, he then called in and adjusted mortar fire for maximum effect upon the enemy. Noticing that one of his men was seriously wounded, he, without regard for his own personal safety, once again exposed himself to heavy enemy fire to rescue the wounded man and carry him upon his back while leading his squad to friendly lines. Sergeant Anderson's heroic conduct, inspiring leadership, and fearless devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
