John S. Stankus’ SECOND Silver Star citation

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

FIRST LIEUTENANT JOHN S. STANKUS, USMCR.,

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, during an engagement with enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, December 30, 1943. Aggressive and courageous in performance of duty, First Lieutenant Stankus boldly sought out the enemy and led one of our patrols to the hostile positions where a daring attack was launched. Subjected to a fierce bayonet charge by the Japanese during the ensuing action, he remained steadfast at his forward position and, by his heroic defiance of danger, rallied our troops to repulse and annihilate the enemy. When the platoon leader was wounded during a second bayonet attack, First Lieutenant Stankus unhesitatingly risked his life to advance under heavy fire and carry the injured Marine to shelter behind our lines. By his inspiring valor in the face of grave danger, First Lieutenant Stankus contributed to the complete rout of the hostile forces, and his exemplary conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”

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

---

Born: 23 July 1916 in Wallingford, Conn…. Brother Henry served alongside him in Guadalcanal and Cape Gloucester… Earned his first Silver Star at Guadalcanal… Retired as lieutenant colonel after serving in the Korean and Vietnam Wars… Passed: 10 December 2003… Interred: Arlington National Cemetery