COLONEL FRANK C. CALDWELL, (then Captain) for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 16 March 1945. When his company encountered heavy opposition from Japanese forces entrenched in a network of caves on 26 February, Captain Caldwell skillfully organized and coordinated his attack over most difficult terrain, exposing himself to heavy enemy fire to insure the execution of his mission. Again, on 3 March, he led his company in a six hundred yard advance under heavy fire which inflicted extremely high casualties among his men. When his platoon leaders became casualties and the platoons became disorganized, he personally organized and maintained contact in his units despite hostile fire, and with unflagging determination and courage, inspired his men to hold the objective. By his indomitable fighting spirit throughout the operation, Captain Caldwell contributed materially to the success of his company. His devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Col. Caldwell resides in Virginia.