James Stephenson (Navy Cross)
Encyclopedia
James Stephenson served in the United States Marine Corps
during World War II
. He was awarded the Navy Cross
for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima
.
His award citation reads:
Stephenson was born in New Diggings, Wisconsin
, his official residence was listed as Hazel Green, Wisconsin
.
United States Marine Corps
The United States Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. It is one of seven uniformed services of the United States...
during World War II
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
. He was awarded the Navy Cross
Navy Cross
The Navy Cross is the highest decoration that may be bestowed by the Department of the Navy and the second highest decoration given for valor. It is normally only awarded to members of the United States Navy, United States Marine Corps and United States Coast Guard, but can be awarded to all...
for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima
Battle of Iwo Jima
The Battle of Iwo Jima , or Operation Detachment, was a major battle in which the United States fought for and captured the island of Iwo Jima from the Empire of Japan. The U.S...
.
His award citation reads:
- The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Corporal James L. Stephenson (MCSN: 912485), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of a Tank Liaison Team of the Fifth Tank Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 22 February 1945. Acting on his own initiative during a heavy rainfall which blinded the tank drivers, Corporal Stephenson, proceeding on foot, led a platoon of tanks in the face of intense enemy fire through hostile mine field areas to a firing position. Braving enemy fire at close range, he directed the tanks' fire against Japanese positions and, subsequently, led the vehicles safely back to their own rear areas. His initiative, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Stephenson was born in New Diggings, Wisconsin
New Diggings, Wisconsin
New Diggings is a town in Lafayette County, Wisconsin, United States. The population was 473 at the 2000 census. The unincorporated communities of Etna and Jenkinsville are located in the town.-Geography:...
, his official residence was listed as Hazel Green, Wisconsin
Hazel Green, Wisconsin
Hazel Green is a village in Grant and Lafayette Counties in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. The population was 1,183 at the 2000 census. The village is located mostly within the Town of Hazel Green in Grant County; only a small portion extends into the Town of Benton in Lafayette...
.