CAPTAIN ERSKINE WELLS

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, 9 and 10 January 1944. Maintaining personal reconnaissance along the entire front line of his battalion during its assault against heavily fortified enemy emplacements and throughout fierce counterattacks against the battalion's hastily established defense position, Captain Wells transmitted valuable information to his commander, thereby enabling the skillful deployment of troops and weapons. On several occasions throughout this engagement he bravely directed mortar and howitzer fire and, by his daring initiative and outstanding efficiency, contributed essentially to the successful completion of this engagement. His unswerving devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.