Joseph E. Connolley’s Navy Cross citation

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

Joseph E. Connolley

Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve)

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces near the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8 – 9 October 8 – 9, 1942. When his Battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River, Corporal Connolly and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Corporal Connolly refused to be dislodged from his position and, after exacting a tremendous toll on the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.