TracesOfWar needs your help! Every euro, pound or dollar you contribute greatly supports the continuation of this website. Go to stiwot.nl and donate!

Marston VII, John

Date of birth:
July 25th, 1917 (Annapolis/Maryland, United States)
Date of death:
1978
Service number:
0-12482
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

Son of Major General John Marston VI. He was commissioned into the U.S. Marine Corps in 1941. Retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Do you have more information about this person? Inform us!

Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Captain
Unit:
Company I, 3rd Battalion, 22nd Marine Regiment, 6th Marine Division "The Striking Sixth", U.S. Marine Corps
Awarded for:
Operation Iceberg
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 17 June 1945. Charged with the extremely difficult and hazardous mission of making the main effort in the attack on the vital and strongly fortified position, Hill 69, Captain Marston led his company in an aggressive assault in the face of intense enemy fire without waiting for an adjacent battalion to come up on the left flank. By his courageous leadership, he furthered the successful seizure and occupation of the objective, possession of which afforded commanding ground from which subsequent attacks to the south could be launched and supported with a decided advantage over the Japanese. His aggressiveness and indomitable fighting spirit served as a constant inspiration to his company, reflecting the highest credit upon Captain Marston and the United States Naval Service."

Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 86000
Silver Star Medal (SSM)

Sources