"For distinguishing himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at
the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with
the enemy on Guadalcanal Island. On January 12, 1943, Maj. Davis (then
Capt.), executive officer of an infantry battalion,
volunteered to carry instructions to the leading companies of his
battalion which had been caught in crossfire from Japanese machine guns.
With complete disregard for his own safety, he made his way to the
trapped units, delivered the instructions, supervised their execution,
and remained overnight in this exposed position. On the following day,
Maj. Davis again volunteered to lead an assault on the Japanese position
which was holding up the advance. When his rifle jammed at its first
shot, he drew his pistol and, waving his men on, led the assault over
the top of the hill. Electrified by this action, another body of
soldiers followed and seized the hill. The capture of this position
broke Japanese resistance and the battalion was then able to proceed and
secure the corps objective. The courage and leadership displayed by
Maj. Davis inspired the entire battalion and unquestionably led to the
success of its attack."
From Capt. Davis' Medal of Honor citation, awarded on July 17, 1943.
John Cusack as Capt. John Gaff (Capt. Davis) in 'The Thin Red Line".
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