Clyde Edward Crouch

Sergeant, U. S. Marine Corps

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 031623 (January 10, 1946)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Clyde E. Crouch (MCSN: 497085), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Squad Leader serving with a platoon of Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 9 and 10 May 1945.
When his platoon leader became a casualty, Sergeant Crouch quickly took command and reorganized the unit under extremely heavy enemy machine gun, rifle and mortar fire. Despite adverse and hazardous conditions he gained control of the platoon, boldly continued the attack and seized the objective. On the following morning, while leading his men against another strongly defended Japanese position, he was mortally wounded.
His inspiring leadership under fire, unfaltering devotion to duty and indomitable fighting spirit reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Crouch and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.