PRIVATE FIRST CLASS FRANK WELCH

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifleman, serving with Company H, Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 2 March 1945. When his squad's advance was held up by an entrenched Japanese automatic weapon which was inflicting severe casualties among the men, Private First Class Welch immediately armed himself with a pistol and, fearlessly risking his life, advanced on the hostile gun position, where he fought the enemy hand-to-hand until he disarmed and killed the Japanese. Although mortally wounded later in the day by shrapnel, Private First Class Welch, by his daring initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty contributed immeasurably to the success of his squad's advance, and his valiant conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."