The 105th Infantry Regiment (less 3d Battalion and Company G) and the Spears Detachment, 762d Provisional Tank Battalion, attached, are cited for exceptionally outstanding performance of duty in combat against the enemy at Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 7 July 1944. The regiment attacked north toward the village of Makunsha on the west coast of Saipan, against increasing enemy resistance. At dawn on 7 July, this unit was subjected to one of the greatest Japanese mass attacks attempted in the Pacific Theater. The 1st and 2d Battalions fought furiously, as the enemy, attacking in great numbers and with fanatical fury, penetrated the combined perimeter defense and inflicted overwhelming casualties on the units. Forced to yield, the survivors of that fierce assault formed successive defensive positions and continued to engage the attacking forces. These units, faced with a dwindling supply of ammunition, water, and medical supplies, fought off incessant enemy attacks throughout the day. Meanwhile the Japanese drive had carried on to the regimental command post where it was completely stopped and contained by the determined stand of Regimental Headquarters and Special Units. Every available man engaged in the action. Through the courage, tenacity, and endurance displayed by all ranks, this unit and its attachment, suffered severe casualties, repulsed the powerful assault launched by a numerically superior enemy and contributed materially to the defeat and destruction of the Japanese forces at Saipan. The conduct of the 105th Infantry Regiment (less 3d Battalion and Company G) and the Spears Detachment, 762d Provisional Tank Battalion, attached, throughout the battle reflects great credit on itself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the armed forces of the United States. (The foregoing citation supersedes the citation made previously to a subordinate unit for action included in the above-cited period, and does not constitute an additional citation authorizing the wearing of an Oak-Leaf Cluster to the Distinguished Unit Emblem to personnel of Headquarters Company, 105th Infantry Regiment, cited in paragraph 4, section VII, General Orders 45, War Department, 1946, which is rescinded.) [General Orders No. 49, Department of the Army, 14 July 1948.]
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