More on Ryan here:
http://www.usmc.mil/genbios2.nsf/0/9D01 ... endocument
Major Michael P. Ryan (1911-2005)
Ryan, Michael P., 330350
Awarded the Navy Cross for action at Tarawa
Osage city, Kansas, company commander Company L, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines.
For extraordinary heroism, great determination and leadership, conspicuous fighting spirit, great personal bravery, and tactical skill. when his battalion commander failed to reach shore, as senior officer Ryan assumed command of the badly disorganized and isolated survivors of three battalions. He organized and directed critical operations of these elements throughout the battle until he was relieved, leading assults on enemy positions, retaining initiative in his sector, and clearing his isolated beachhead into which reinforcements could be moved.
Ryan also received the British Distinguished Service Order.
http://www.geocities.com/jonathan.e.stevens/ryan.htm
Tarawa 1943 Derrick Wright..Other outstanding achievements were recognised,notably the capture of Green Beach on D+1 by Maj Ryan and his gathering of the survivors of the landing on Red Beach 1.In retrospect,the capture of Green Beach was the single factor that turned the tide of the battle irrevocably in the Marines' favor...
