The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
VANDEGRIFT, ALEXANDER ARCHER
Rank and Organization: Major General, U.S. Marine
Corps, commanding officer of the 1st Marine Division. Place and Date Solomon
Islands, 7 August to 9 December 1942. Entered Service at: Virginia. Born:
13 March 1887, Charlottesville, Va.
Citation:
For outstanding and heroic accomplishment above and beyond the call of duty as commanding
officer of the 1st Marine Division in operations against enemy Japanese forces in the
Solomon Islands during the period 7 August to 9 December 1942. With the adverse factors of
weather, terrain, and disease making his task a difficult and hazardous undertaking, and
with his command eventually including sea, land, and air forces of Army, Navy, and Marine
Corps, Maj. Gen. Vandegrift achieved marked success in commanding the initial landings of
the U.S. forces in the Solomon Islands and in their subsequent occupation. His tenacity,
courage, and resourcefulness prevailed against a strong, determined, and experienced
enemy, and the gallant fighting spirit of the men under his inspiring leadership enabled
them to withstand aerial, land, and sea bombardment, to surmount all obstacles, and leave
a disorganized and ravaged enemy. This dangerous but vital mission, accomplished at the
constant risk of his life, resulted in securing a valuable base for further operations of
our forces against the enemy, and its successful completion reflects great credit upon
Maj. Gen. Vandegrift, his command, and the U.S. Naval Service.
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