Willard B. Holdredge’s Navy Cross citation

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to

Willard B. Holdredge

First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

for distinguished service in action as Commanding Officer of Battery C, FOURTH Marines (Detached) as member of a Navy Bluejacket-Marine Battalion, in action against the enemy in the defense of the Bataan Peninsula, Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 28 December 1941 to 8 April 1942. Lieutenant Holdrege commanded an anti-aircraft battery which, due to conditions of terrain, was completely exposed and subjected to repeated aerial bombardments. By his courage and efficiency, and with complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Holdrege maintained his battery at the peak of battle efficiency in action and thus materially contributed to the defense of the Mariveles area. From 23 to 31 January 1942, he rendered invaluable services while serving with a composite Bluejacket-Marine Battalion which had been hastily formed to expel a strong enemy penetration which dangerously threatened the Miravalis area of Bataan. By his courage, energy, and splendid qualities of leadership he materially contributed to the success of that action which resulted in the enemy being isolated on Longoskawayan Points where it was destroyed. His action at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.