Ernest Marion Carey

Corporal, U. S. Marine Corps

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 1182 (February 22, 1945)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Ernest M. Carey (MCSN: 489198), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Squad Leader serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 18 June 1944.
Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Corporal Carey rendered valiant service during initial operations on this strategically important enemy stronghold. With his squad, he was first to reach the ridge during his assault company's attack on a hostile position and was mortally wounded.
Observing the withdrawal of some of his men, Corporal Carey, despite his critical condition, rallied them and thereby enabled his squad to repulse a small number of attacking infantrymen and to destroy several Japanese troops.
By his determined initiative and heroic fighting spirit, he contributed materially to the success of his company's attack and to the ultimate success of this vital campaign, and his unwavering devotion to duty and inspiring leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.