"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of a rifle company
attached to the 2nd Battalion 24th Marines|, 4th Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands, on 21 February 1945. Determined to break through the
enemy's cross-island defenses, Capt. McCarthy acted on his own
initiative when his company advance was held up by uninterrupted
Japanese rifle, machine gun, and high-velocity 47mm fire during the
approach to Motoyama Airfield No. 2. Quickly organizing a demolitions
and flamethrower team to accompany his picked rifle squad, he fearlessly
led the way across 75 yards of fire-swept ground, charged a heavily
fortified pillbox on the ridge of the front, and, personally hurling
hand grenades into the emplacement as he directed the combined
operations of his small assault group, completely destroyed the hostile
installation. Spotting two Japanese soldiers attempting an escape from
the shattered pillbox, he boldly stood upright in full view of the
enemy, and dispatched both troops before advancing to a second
emplacement under greatly intensified fire, and then blasted the strong
fortifications with a well-planned demolitions attack. Subsequently
entering the ruins, he found a Japanese taking aim at one of our men,
and, with alert presence of mind, jumped the enemy, disarmed, and shot
him with his own weapon. Then, intent on smashing through the narrow
breach, he rallied the remainder of his company, and pressed a full
attack with furious aggressiveness, until he had neutralized all
resistance and captured the ridge. An inspiring leader and indomitable
fighter, Capt. McCarthy consistently disregarded all personal danger
during the fierce conflict, and, by his brilliant professional skill,
daring tactics, and tenacious perseverance in the face of overwhelming
odds, contributed materially to the success of his division's operations
against this savagely defended outpost of the Japanese Empire. His cool
decision and outstanding valor reflect the highest credit upon Capt.
McCarthy, and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service."
From Capt. McCarthy's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on October 5, 1945.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
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