One of four alumni to gain 4-star rank. Awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism while in action against Japanese forces August 20-21, 1942, on Guadalcanal. When troops under his command were ambushed by a powerful enemy force, Pollock left his Command Post, advanced through intense mortar and machine-gun fire to the front line where he constantly exposed himself to enemy fire while directing his men for 12 hours. Due to his courageous leadership and bravery, his command destroyed the entire enemy force of 700. He held command positions too numerous to mention and upon his retirement in 1959,he was the only officer to have commanded both the Pacific and Atlantic Fleet Marine Forces.The Act of Feb 23, 1947 by Congress promoted select USMC Officers from 3-star to 4-star upon retirement based on combat citations.
