CONNORS, GERALD MARTIN
Lieutenant (j.g.) Gerald Martin Conners, U.S.Naval Reserve
U.S.S. LCI(G) 469
Date of Action: February 17, 1945
Citation:
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gerald Martin Connors, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Landing Craft Infantry Gunboat FOUR HUNDRED SIXTY-NINE (LCI(G)-369), operating as a unit of LCI(G),
Group EIGHT, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the close-in fire support operations against Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands on 17 February 1945. Vigilant and determined,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Connors penetrated the spreading curtain of devastating gunfire from powerful Japanese coastal positions to close the beach and deliver a steady barrage, blasting
the enemy's fortifications with unrelenting aggressiveness for more than an hour. With his firepower reduced as operational casualties disabled his main battery, he steadfastly remained on
station and intensified the rate of fire from his 20-mm. guns until the heavy battery was again in operation. Ordered to withdraw from the field of combat when fires flared and the 469
began shipping water as a result of enemy gunfire, he effected damage control in a matter of minutes and, voluntarily returning to the firing line, again closed the beach in bold defiance
of the pounding fury of Japanese shore batteries and continued to bombard defensive positions, persistently delivering heavy and short range fire despite additional hits and increasing
personnel casualties resulting from the incessant counterfire. By his dauntless courage, indomitable fighting spirit and outstanding professional skill, Lieutenant Connors contributed
materially to the success of this extremely hazardous mission and his valiant leadership throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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