William H. Stagg Jr.’s Silver Star citation

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the SILVER STAR MEDAL posthumously to

PRIVATE WILLIAM H. STAGG, JR., USMCR.,

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, December 28, 1943.Immediately after his platoon contacted the enemy, Private Stagg crawled to a vantage point, risking his life to observe and fire upon the hostile units. Despite intense enemy rifle and mortar fire, he unwaveringly pointed out targets to members of his squad and, remaining in this exposed position for nearly two hours, inflicted many casualties before he, himself, was fatally wounded. Private Stagg’s daring initiative and inspiring devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”

For the President,
/s/ James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy

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Born: 9 January 1921 in Birmingham, Ala…. Home of record: Birmingham, Ala…. Assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division… Interred: Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, Ala.