Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division "Fighting Third", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

September 18th, 1947

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward A. Craig (0-196), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 July to 10 August 1944. An Aggressive and inspiring leader, Colonel Craig constantly directed his men in combat in the face of intense enemy fire from the time of landing with the assault elements of his regiment until organized resistance ceased. On 30 July, charged with capturing a portion of high ground on the force beachhead line and making contact with the Army on Mount Tenjo, Colonel Craig remained with his leading assault elements during the entire advance and, by his coolness under fire, provided inspiration for his officers and men. Personally directing the final assault on Mount Chachao, he kept casualties at a minimum by his expert judgment. When of his battalions encountered heavy enemy resistance near an important road junction during the advance to the northern end of Guam on 3 August, he took a position beside a tank advancing with the assault troops and, despite a constant stream of rifle and machine-gun fire, fearlessly remained there throughout the entire action of several hours to direct the attack which annihilated several hundred of the enemy. His outstanding ability, courageous leadership and devotion to duty were important factors in the success of the campaign and reflect the highest credit upon Colonel Craig and the United States Naval Service.


SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 00893 (SofN Signed 18 September 1947).

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division "Fighting Third", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded for action during the Bougainville Campaign.

Citation unavailable.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Brigadier General (Brigadier)

Unit:

HQ, V Amphibious Corps, U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded for:

Operation Detachment

For his service as Operations Officer V Amphibious Corps in the assault on Iwo Jima in February 1945.