The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
*POWER, JOHN VINCENT
Rank and Organization: First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps. Born: 20 November 1918, Worcester, Mass. Appointed From:
Massachusetts.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty as platoon leader, attached to the 4th Marine Division, during the landing
and battle of Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, 1 February 1944. Severely
wounded in the stomach while setting a demolition charge on a Japanese pillbox, 1st Lt.
Power was steadfast in his determination to remain in action. Protecting his wound with
his left hand and firing with his right, he courageously advanced as another hostile
position was taken under attack, fiercely charging the opening made by the explosion and
emptying his carbine into the pillbox. While attempting to reload and continue the attack,
1st Lt. Power was shot again in the stomach and head and collapsed in the doorway. His
exceptional valor, fortitude and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of withering
enemy fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
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