PFC David W. Alley, USMC....

Note:  This is something I hope to do every week...bring you the citations of Navy Cross winners.  Everyone hears about the Medal of Honor recipients but that doesn't tell the whole story.  Read the citations of these guys and you'll wonder why they didn't merit a MoH.  First up, PFC David W. Alley, USMC.

Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to David W. Alley (11052554), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an Automatic Rifleman in Company G, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces on a hill overlooking Yudam-ni, Korea, on 30 November 1950. When the enemy launched an attack while his company was moving into new positions and platoon and squad officers and leaders were either killed or wounded, Private First Class Alley unhesitatingly assumed command of his squad and, skillfully reorganizing his group, conducted the effective defense of his sector with the result that the hostile troops were repulsed. Repeatedly braving intense enemy fire, he positioned and repositioned his men for efficient defense and supplied them with ammunition and grenades, successfully repelling continued hostile attacks throughout the night. Indefatigable in his efforts, he exposed himself to small-arms, automatic weapons and grenade fire again on the next morning to observe and adjust mortar fire for his company. When his company was ordered to break contact with the enemy located fifty yards to the front, he skillfully withdrew his squad without a single casualty. His cool and skilled leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of aggressive enemy action reflect the highest credit on Private First Alley and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 688 (July 11, 1951)
Born: at Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Home Town: Minneapolis, Minnesota