Colonel Donald F. Neff

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve

Japan, World War II

July 10, 1944

Colonel Neff was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to Company A, Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion, Fleet Marine Force, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Tinian Island on July 10, 1944.

While a 2nd Lieutenant, Neff led his three-man night patrol on a hydrographic reconnaissance to a landing beach; and, swimming ashore with only a knife, observed enemy activity. Determined to complete his primary objective and find an exit for the beach, he proceeded alone and found a footpath over which friendly troops landing on a beach could advance. Returning to his men, he guided the patrol back to their battalion.

His leadership, perseverance and fortitude in fulfilling an important assignment reflect the highest credit on him and the U.S. Naval Service.