Reaves, Walker Alpha

Date of birth:: 1901 (Haleyville/Alabama, United States)
Date of death:: 1963
Service number:: 0-4328
Nationality:: American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

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Silver Star Medal (SSM)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Lieutenant Colonel
Unit:: Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain during World War II. Assigned the difficult mission of defending the left flank of an assault force which was attacking across a low coastal plain while his battalion's zone of action ran through the hilly, swamp-infested jungle, Lieutenant Colonel Reaves brilliantly led his men across the treacherous terrain in the face of concentrated enemy machine-gun fire from cleverly concealed pillboxes. Disregarding the constant hostile fire, he skillfully directed his assault formations effectively and employed supporting artillery and auxiliary weapons to maintain pace with the main body of troops. By his courageous leadership and professional ability, Lieutenant Colonel Reaves aided greatly in the ultimate success of a hazardous mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 09391