DAVIS, CHARLES W.

RANK AND ORGANIZATION:  Major, United States Army, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
BORN:
ENTERED SERVICE AT:
PLACE AND DATE: Guadalcanal Island, 12 January 1943.

CITATION:
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 12 January 1943, Major Davis, then Captain, executive officer of an Infantry Battalion, volunteered to carry instructions to the leading companies of his battalion which had been caught in a cross fire 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, Major Davis again volunteered to lead the assault on the Japanese position which was holding up the advance. When his rifle jammed on its first shot, he drew his pistol and waving his men on, led the assault over the top of the hill. Electrified by his action another group 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 Major Davis inspired the entire battalion and unquestionably led to the success of its attack.

Notes:
Colonel Davis; Arlington National Cemetery Section 7-A