PRIVATE CLARENCE WEISS

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Armored Bulldozer Operator, serving with Headquarters and Service Company, Sixth Engineer Battalion, Sixth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 20 June 1945. Highly vulnerable in the open cab of his bulldozer, Private Weiss courageously moved ahead of the infantry into shattering Japanese artillery, mortar and small-arms fire to pioneer a road essential for a planned tank assault upon an enemy-held ridge line and, pressing grimly forward in his cumbersome vehicle, successfully completed his mission. Mortally wounded while working his way back to friendly lines when a suicidal enemy soldier threw two satchel demolition charges into the open cab, Private Weiss, by his fortitude, determination and devotion to duty, had enabled the tanks to achieve their objective, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.