Colonel Henry G. Lawrence, Jr., received the Navy Cross for his extraordinary heroism while acting as commander of the Second Amphibian Tractor Battalion, Second Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, 20 to 23 November 1943. Personally leading the center group of amphibian tractors in the initial landing, Major Lawrence directed his own tractor over barbed wire and other obstacles in the face of intense antiboat and machinegun fire, thereby enabling subsequent waves to land successfully and, when his driver was killed, unhesitatingly took the drivers seat and made four trips to the beach with urgently needed supplies and men. With his tractor finally disabled and his battalion Commander reported killed, he promptly re-boarded a landing boat and organized the remaining vehicles for continued action. Throughout the following three days, he worked tirelessly to direct the landing and delivering of supplies to the front line troops although three of his drivers were killed and he, himself, was twice hit by shrapnel while attempting to get ashore in tractors. Major LawrenceÃs inspiring leadership and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of grave peril contributed materially to the ultimate capture of highest strategic atoll and reflect the highest credit upon himself, his command and the United States Naval Service.
The extraordinary heroism of Colonel Lawrence during that period also brought him the award of the Royal NavyÃs Distinguished Service Cross, a gallantry decoration very rarely found on a U.S. uniform. Coincidentally, it is suspended from a navy blue ribbon with a center white stripe. The award was recommended by the First Lord of the Admiralty, approved by King George VI, and notes that ìby his tireless energy, fearless performance of duty, and inspiring leadership, his unit became one of the primary factors in the successful capture of Tarawa Atoll.î
Colonel Lawrence joined the Legion of Valor in 1976.