The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
*NEW, JOHN DURY
Rank and Organization: Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps. Born: 12 August 1924, Mobile, Ala. Accredited To: Alabama.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty while serving with the 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, 25 September 1944.
When a Japanese soldier emerged from a cave in a cliff directly below an observation post
and suddenly hurled a grenade into the position from which 2 of our men were directing
mortar fire against enemy emplacements, Pfc. New instantly perceived the dire peril to the
other marines and, with utter disregard for his own safety, unhesitatingly flung himself
upon the grenade and absorbed the full impact of the explosion, thus saving the lives of
the 2 observers. Pfc. New's great personal valor and selfless conduct in the face of
almost certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.
|
