William John Hunniford Jr. was born in Rockville, Tolland County, Connecticut. He served in Company I, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Provisional Marine Brigade as a Sergeant. He was Killed in Action on July 27, 1944, during the Battle for Guam.

Navy Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Platoon Sergeant William J. Hunniford, Jr. (MCSN: 323522), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Third Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 21 to 27 July 1944. When the point of his platoon was pinned down by intense enemy machine-gun fire during an advance across a rice field, Platoon Sergeant Hunniford unhesitatingly made three trips into the open area and carried out wounded men. On 26 July, as his company was committed to action, he personally cleaned out three hostile pillboxes by skillfully and effectively using smoke grenades and entering the positions to kill the remaining defenders. Subsequently, under cover of automatic rifle fire, he again attacked a Japanese pillbox and, accurately firing rifle grenades from a carbine, succeeded in destroying the emplacement, but was mortally wounded by fierce enemy crossfire while attempting to neutralize another position. Platoon Sergeant Hunniford's inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty throughout these days of violent combat reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

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