Invasion of Lingayen Gulf, Luzon,
Northern Philippine Islands
 6
January 1945 - *DAVIS, GEORGE FLEMING, Commander, U.S.
Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life and beyond the call of duty as Commanding
Officer of the U.S.S. Walke
engaged in a detached mission in support of
minesweeping operations to clear the waters for entry
of our heavy surface and amphibious forces
preparatory to the invasion of Lingayen Gulf, Luzon,
Philippine Islands, 6 January 1945. Operating without
gun support of other surface ships when four Japanese
suicide planes were detected flying low overland to
attack simultaneously, Comdr. Davis boldly took his
position in the exposed wings of the bridge and
directed control to pick up the leading plane and
open fire. Alert and fearless as the Walke's deadly
fire sent the first target crashing into the water
and caught the second as it passed close over the
bridge to plunge into the sea of portside, he
remained steadfast in the path of the third plane
plunging swiftly to crash the after end of the bridge
structure. Seriously wounded when the craft struck,
drenched with gasoline and immediately enveloped in
flames, he conned the Walke in the midst of the
wreckage; he rallied his command to heroic efforts;
he exhorted his officers and men to save the ship
and, still on his feet, saw the barrage from his guns
destroy the fourth suicide bomber. With the fires
under control and the safety of the ship assured, he
consented to be carried below. Succumbing several
hours later, Comdr. Davis by his example of valor and
his unhesitating self-sacrifice, steeled the fighting
spirit of his command into unyielding purpose in
completing a vital mission. He gallantly gave his
life in the service of his country.
Battle for Corregidor Island, Manila
Bay, Luzon, Philippine Islands
14
February 1945 - *BIGELOW, ELMER CHARLES, Watertender
First Class, U.S. Naval Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving on board the U.S.S. Fletcher (destroyer)
during action against enemy Japanese forces off
Corregidor Island in the Philippines, 14 February
1945. Standing topside when an enemy shell struck the
Fletcher, Bigelow, acting instantly as the deadly
projectile exploded into fragments which penetrated
the No. 1 gun magazine and set fire to several powder
cases, picked up a pair of fire extinguishers and
rushed below in a resolute attempt to quell the
raging flames. Refusing to waste the precious time
required to don rescue-breathing apparatus, he
plunged through the blinding smoke billowing out of
the magazine hatch and dropped into the blazing
compartment. Despite the acrid, burning powder smoke
which seared his lungs with every agonizing breath,
he worked rapidly and with instinctive sureness and
succeeded in quickly extinguishing the fires and in
cooling the cases and bulkheads, thereby preventing
further damage to the stricken ship. Although he
succumbed to his injuries on the following day,
Bigelow, by his dauntless valor, unfaltering skill
and prompt action in the critical emergency, had
averted a magazine explosion which undoubtedly would
have left his ship wallowing at the mercy of the
furiously pounding Japanese guns on Corregidor, and
his heroic spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of
almost certain death enhanced and sustained the
highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life in the service of his
country.
Naval Diving Operations, Pearl
Harbor, Hawaiian Islands, North Pacific
17
February 1945 - *HAMMERBERG, OWEN FRANCIS PATRICK,
Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as a
diver engaged in rescue operations at
West Loch, Pearl Harbor, 17 February 1945.
Aware of the danger when two fellow divers were
hopelessly trapped in a cave-in of steel wreckage
while tunneling with jet nozzles under an LST sunk in
40 feet of water and 20 feet of mud. Hammerberg
unhesitatingly went overboard in a valiant attempt to
effect their rescue despite the certain hazard of
additional cave-ins and the risk of fouling his
lifeline on jagged pieces of steel imbedded in the
shifting mud. Washing a passage through the original
excavation, he reached the first of the trapped men,
freed him from the wreckage and, working desperately
in pitch-black darkness, finally effected his release
from fouled lines, thereby enabling him to reach the
surface. Wearied but undaunted after several hours of
arduous labor, Hammerberg resolved to continue his
struggle to wash through the oozing submarine,
subterranean mud in a determined effort to save the
second diver. Venturing still farther under the
buried hulk, he held tenaciously to his purpose,
reaching a place immediately above the other man just
as another cave-in occurred and a heavy piece of
steel pinned him crosswise over his shipmate in a
position which protected the man beneath from further
injury while placing the full brunt of terrific
pressure on himself. Although he succumbed in agony
18 hours after he had gone to the aid of his fellow
divers, Hammerberg, by his cool judgment, unfaltering
professional skill and consistent disregard of all
personal danger in the face of tremendous odds, had
contributed effectively to the saving of his two
comrades. His heroic spirit of self-sacrifice
throughout enhanced and sustained the highest
traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life in the service of his country.
Invasion of Iwo Jima, Bonin or
Volcano Islands, Western Pacific
17
February 1945 - HERRING, RUFUS G., Lieutenant, U.S. Naval
Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding
officer of LCI (G) 449 operating
as a unit of LCI (G) Group 8, during the preinvasion
attack on Iwo Jima on 17 February 1945. Boldly
closing the strongly fortified shores under the
devastating fire of Japanese coastal defense guns,
Lt. (then Lt. (j.g.)) Herring directed shattering
barrages of 40mm. and 20mm. gunfire against hostile
beaches until struck down by the enemy's savage
counterfire which blasted the 449's heavy guns and
whipped her decks into sheets of flame. Regaining
consciousness despite profuse bleeding he was again
critically wounded when a Japanese mortar crashed the
conning station, instantly killing or fatally
wounding most of the officers and leaving the ship
wallowing without navigational control. Upon
recovering the second time, Lt. Herring resolutely
climbed down to the pilothouse and, fighting against
his rapidly waning strength, took over the helm,
established communication with the engineroom, and
carried on valiantly until relief could be obtained.
When no longer able to stand, he propped himself
against empty shell cases and rallied his men to the
aid of the wounded; he maintained position in the
firing line with his 20mm. guns in action in the face
of sustained enemy fire, and conned his crippled ship
to safety. His unwavering fortitude, aggressive
perseverance, and indomitable spirit against terrific
odds reflect the highest credit upon Lt. Herring and
uphold the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service.
19
February 1945 - *COLE, DARRELL SAMUEL, Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as leader of a Machinegun
Section of Company B, 1st Battalion,
23d Marines, 4th Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on
Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945.
Assailed by a tremendous volume of small-arms, mortar
and artillery fire as he advanced with one squad of
his section in the initial assault wave, Sgt. Cole
boldly led his men up the sloping beach toward
Airfield No. 1 despite the blanketing curtain of
flying shrapnel and, personally destroying with hand
grenades two hostile emplacements which menaced the
progress of his unit, continued to move forward until
a merciless barrage of fire emanating from three
Japanese pillboxes halted the advance. Instantly
placing his one remaining machinegun in action, he
delivered a shattering fusillade and succeeded in
silencing the nearest and most threatening
emplacement before his weapon jammed and the enemy,
reopening fire with knee mortars and grenades, pinned
down his unit for the second time. Shrewdly gauging
the tactical situation and evolving a daring plan of
counterattack, Sgt. Cole, armed solely with a pistol
and one grenade, coolly advanced alone to the hostile
pillboxes. Hurling his one grenade at the enemy in
sudden, swift attack, he quickly withdrew, returned
to his own lines for additional grenades and again
advanced, attacked, and withdrew. With enemy guns
still active, he ran the gauntlet of slashing fire a
third time to complete the total destruction of the
Japanese strong point and the annihilation of the
defending garrison in this final assault. Although
instantly killed by an enemy grenade as he returned
to his squad, Sgt. Cole had eliminated a formidable
Japanese position, thereby enabling his company to
storm the remaining fortifications, continue the
advance, and seize the objective. By his dauntless
initiative, unfaltering courage, and indomitable
determination during a critical period of action,
Sgt. Cole served as an inspiration to his comrades,
and his stouthearted leadership in the face of almost
certain death sustained and enhanced the highest
tradition of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
19
February 1945 - *STEIN, TONY, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 28th
Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, in the
Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. The first man of
his unit to be on station after hitting the beach in
the initial assault, Cpl. Stein, armed with a
personally improvised aircraft-type weapon, provided
rapid covering fire as the remainder of his platoon
attempted to move into position. When his comrades
were stalled by a concentrated machinegun and mortar
barrage, he gallantly stood upright and exposed
himself to the enemy's view, thereby drawing the
hostile fire to his own person and enabling him to
observe the location of the furiously blazing hostile
guns. Determined to neutralize the strategically
placed weapons, he boldly charged the enemy pillboxes
one by one and succeeded in killing 20 of the enemy
during the furious single-handed assault. Cool and
courageous under the merciless hail of exploding
shells and bullets which fell on all sides, he
continued to deliver the fire of his skillfully
improvised weapon at a tremendous rate of speed which
rapidly exhausted his ammunition. Undaunted, he
removed his helmet and shoes to expedite his
movements and ran back to the beach for additional
ammunition, making a total of eight trips under
intense fire and carrying or assisting a wounded man
back each time. Despite the unrelenting savagery and
confusion of battle, he rendered prompt assistance to
his platoon whenever the unit was in position,
directing the fire of a half-track against a stubborn
pillbox until he had effected the ultimate
destruction of the Japanese fortification. Later in
the day, although his weapon was twice shot from his
hands, he personally covered the withdrawal of his
platoon to the company position. Stouthearted and
indomitable, Cpl. Stein, by his aggressive initiative
sound judgment, and unwavering devotion to duty in
the face of terrific odds, contributed materially to
the fulfillment of his mission, and his outstanding
valor throughout the bitter hours of conflict
sustains and enhances the highest traditions of the
U.S. Naval Service.
19
to 21 February 1945 - *RUHL, DONALD JACK, Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as a rifleman in an assault
platoon of Company E, 28th Marines,
5th Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19
to 21 February 1945. Quick to press the advantage
after eight Japanese had been driven from a
blockhouse on D-day, Pfc. Ruhl single-handedly
attacked the group, killing one of the enemy with his
bayonet and another by rifle fire in his determined
attempt to annihilate the escaping troops. Cool and
undaunted as the fury of hostile resistance steadily
increased throughout the night, he voluntarily left
the shelter of his tank trap early in the morning of
D-day plus 1 and moved out under a tremendous volume
of mortar and machinegun fire to rescue a wounded
marine Iying in an exposed position approximately 40
yards forward of the line. Half pulling and half
carrying the wounded man, he removed him to a
defiladed position, called for an assistant and a
stretcher and, again running the gauntlet of hostile
fire, carried the casualty to an aid station some 300
yards distant on the beach. Returning to his platoon,
he continued his valiant efforts, volunteering to
investigate and apparently abandoned Japanese gun
emplacement 75 yards forward of the right flank
during consolidation of the front lines, and
subsequently occupying the position through the night
to prevent the enemy from repossessing the valuable
weapon. Pushing forward in the assault against the
vast network of fortifications surrounding Mt.
Suribachi the following morning, he crawled with his
platoon guide to the top of a Japanese bunker to
bring fire to bear on enemy troops located on the far
side of the bunker. Suddenly a hostile grenade landed
between the two marines. Instantly Pfc. Ruhl called a
warning to his fellow marine and dived on the deadly
missile, at-sorbing the full impact of the shattering
explosion in his own body and protecting all within
range from the danger of flying fragments although he
might easily have dropped from his position on the
edge of the bunker to the ground below. An
indomitable fighter, Pfc. Ruhl rendered heroic
service toward the defeat of a ruthless enemy, and
his valor, initiative and unfaltering spirit of
self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death
sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the
U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for
his country.
19
to 22 February 1945 - CHAMBERS, JUSTICE M, Colonel. U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding
officer of the 3d Assault Battalion
Landing Team, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands, from 19 to 22 February 1945. Under a
furious barrage of enemy machinegun and small-arms
fire from the commanding cliffs on the right, Col.
Chambers (then Lt. Col.) landed immediately after the
initial assault waves of his battalion on D-day to
find the momentum of the assault threatened by heavy
casualties from withering Japanese artillery, mortar
rocket, machinegun, and rifle fire. Exposed to
relentless hostile fire, he coolly reorganized his
battle-weary men, inspiring them to heroic efforts by
his own valor and leading them in an attack on the
critical, impregnable high ground from which the
enemy was pouring an increasing volume of fire
directly onto troops ashore as well as amphibious
craft in succeeding waves. Constantly in the front
lines encouraging his men to push forward against the
enemy's savage resistance, Col. Chambers led the
8-hour battle to carry the flanking ridge top and
reduce the enemy's fields of aimed fire, thus
protecting the vital foothold gained. In constant
defiance of hostile fire while reconnoitering the
entire regimental combat team zone of action, he
maintained contact with adjacent units and forwarded
vital information to the regimental commander. His
zealous fighting spirit undiminished despite terrific
casualties and the loss of most of his key officers,
he again reorganized his troops for renewed attack
against the enemy's main line of resistance and was
directing the fire of the rocket platoon when he
fell, critically wounded. Evacuated under heavy
Japanese fire, Col. Chambers, by forceful leadership,
courage, and fortitude in the face of staggering
odds, was directly instrumental in insuring the
success of subsequent operations of the 5th
Amphibious Corps on Iwo Jima, thereby sustaining and
enhancing the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service.
20
February 1945 - LUCAS, JACKLYN HAROLD, Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines,
5th Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands,
20 February 1945. While creeping through a
treacherous, twisting ravine which ran in close
proximity to a fluid and uncertain frontline on
D-plus-1 day, Pfc. Lucas and three other men were
suddenly ambushed by a hostile patrol which savagely
attacked with rifle fire and grenades. Quick to act
when the lives of the small group were endangered by
two grenades which landed directly in front of them,
Pfc. Lucas unhesitatingly hurled himself over his
comrades upon one grenade and pulled the other under
him, absorbing the whole blasting forces of the
explosions in his own body in order to shield his
companions from the concussion and murderous flying
fragments. By his inspiring action and valiant spirit
of self-sacrifice, he not only protected his comrades
from certain injury or possible death but also
enabled them to rout the Japanese patrol and continue
the advance. His exceptionally courageous initiative
and loyalty reflect the highest credit upon Pfc.
Lucas and the U.S. Naval Service.
20
and 21 February 1945 - DUNLAP, ROBERT. HUGO, Captain,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding
officer of Company C, 1st Battalion,
26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of
Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 20 and 21
February, 1945. Defying uninterrupted blasts of
Japanese artillery. mortar, rifle and machinegun
fire, Capt. Dunlap led his troops in a determined
advance from low ground uphill toward the steep
cliffs from which the enemy poured a devastating rain
of shrapnel and bullets, steadily inching forward
until the tremendous volume of enemy fire from the
caves located high to his front temporarily halted
his progress. Determined not to yield, he crawled
alone approximately 200 yards forward of his front
lines, took observation at the base of the cliff 50
yards from Japanese lines, located the enemy gun
positions and returned to his own lines where he
relayed the vital information to supporting artillery
and naval gunfire units. Persistently disregarding
his own personal safety, he then placed himself in an
exposed vantage point to direct more accurately the
supporting fire and, working without respite for two
days and two nights under constant enemy fire,
skillfully directed a smashing bombardment against
the almost impregnable Japanese positions despite
numerous obstacles and heavy marine casualties. A
brilliant leader, Capt. Dunlap inspired his men to
heroic efforts during this critical phase of the
battle and by his cool decision, indomitable fighting
spirit, and daring tactics in the face of fanatic
opposition greatly accelerated the final decisive
defeat of Japanese countermeasures in his sector and
materially furthered the continued advance of his
company. His great personal valor and gallant spirit
of self-sacrifice throughout the bitter hostilities
reflect the highest credit upon Capt. Dunlap and the
U.S. Naval Service.
21
February 1945 - *GRAY, ROSS FRANKLIN, Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as a Platoon
Sergeant attached to Company A, 1st
Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands, 21 February 1945. Shrewdly gauging
the tactical situation when his platoon was held up
by a sudden barrage of hostile grenades while
advancing toward the high ground northeast of
Airfield No. 1, Sgt. Gray promptly organized the
withdrawal of his men from enemy grenade range,
quickly moved forward alone to reconnoiter and
discovered a heavily mined area extending along the
front of a strong network of emplacements joined by
covered trenches. Although assailed by furious
gunfire, he cleared a path leading through the
minefield to one of the fortifications, then returned
to the platoon position and, informing his leader of
the serious situation, volunteered to initiate an
attack under cover of three fellow marines. Alone and
unarmed but carrying a huge satchel charge, he crept
up on the Japanese emplacement, boldly hurled the
short-fused explosive and sealed the entrance.
Instantly taken under machinegun fire from a second
entrance to the same position, he unhesitatingly
braved the increasingly vicious fusillades to crawl
back for another charge, returned to his objective
and blasted the second opening, thereby demolishing
the position. Repeatedly covering the ground between
the savagely defended enemy fortifications and his
platoon area, he systematically approached, attacked
and withdrew under blanketing fire to destroy a total
of six Japanese positions, more than 25 troops and a
quantity of vital ordnance gear and ammunition.
Stouthearted and indomitable, Sgt. Gray had
single-handedly overcome a strong enemy garrison and
had completely disarmed a large minefield before
finally rejoining his unit. By his great personal
valor, daring tactics and tenacious perseverance in
the face of extreme peril, he had contributed
materially to the fulfillment of his company mission.
His gallant conduct throughout enhanced and sustained
the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
21
February 1945 - McCARTHY, JOSEPH JEREMIAH, Captain, U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding
officer of a rifle company attached
to the 2d Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, on 21 February 1945. Determined to break
through the enemy's cross-island defenses, Capt.
McCarthy acted on his own initiative when his company
advance was held up by uninterrupted Japanese rifle,
machinegun, and high-velocity 47mm. fire during the
approach to Motoyama Airfield No. 2. Quickly
organizing a demolitions and flamethrower team to
accompany his picked rifle squad, he fearlessly led
the way across 75 yards of fire-swept ground, charged
a heavily fortified pillbox on the ridge of the front
and, personally hurling hand grenades into the
emplacement as he directed the combined operations of
his small assault group, completely destroyed the
hostile installation. Spotting two Japanese soldiers
attempting an escape from the shattered pillbox, he
boldly stood upright in full view of the enemy and
dispatched both troops before advancing to a second
emplacement under greatly intensified fire and then
blasted the strong fortifications with a well-planned
demolitions attack. Subsequently entering the ruins,
he found a Japanese taking aim at one of our men and,
with alert presence of mind, jumped the enemy,
disarmed and shot him with his own weapon. Then,
intent on smashing through the narrow breach, he
rallied the remainder of his company and pressed a
full attack with furious aggressiveness until he had
neutralized all resistance and captured the ridge. An
inspiring leader and indomitable fighter, Capt.
McCarthy consistently disregarded all personal danger
during the fierce conflict and, by his brilliant
professional skill, daring tactics, and tenacious
perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds,
contributed materially to the success of his
division's operations against this savagely defended
outpost of the Japanese Empire. His cool decision and
outstanding valor reflect the highest credit upon
Capt. McCarthy and enhance the finest traditions of
the U.S. Naval Service.
23
February 1945 - WILLIAMS, HERSHEL WOODROW, Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as demolition
sergeant serving with the 21st
Marines, 3d Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, 23 February 1945. Quick to volunteer his
services when our tanks were maneuvering vainly to
open a lane for the infantry through the network of
reinforced concrete pillboxes, buried mines, and
black volcanic sands, Cpl. Williams daringly went
forward alone to attempt the reduction of devastating
machinegun fire from the unyielding positions.
Covered only by four riflemen, he fought desperately
for four hours under terrific enemy small-arms fire
and repeatedly returned to his own lines to prepare
demolition charges and obtain serviced flamethrowers,
struggling back, frequently to the rear of hostile
emplacements, to wipe out one position after another.
On one occasion, he daringly mounted a pillbox to
insert the nozzle of his flamethrower through the air
vent, killing the occupants and silencing the gun; on
another he grimly charged enemy riflemen who
attempted to stop him with bayonets and destroyed
them with a burst of flame from his weapon. His
unyielding determination and extraordinary heroism in
the face of ruthless enemy resistance were directly
instrumental in neutralizing one of the most
fanatically defended Japanese strong points
encountered by his regiment and aided vitally in
enabling his company to reach its objective. Cpl.
Williams' aggressive fighting spirit and valiant
devotion to duty throughout this fiercely contested
action sustain and enhance the highest traditions of
the U.S. Naval Service.
26
February 1945 - JACOBSON, DOUGLAS THOMAS, Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with the
3d Battalion, 23d
Marines, 4th Marine Division, in combat against enemy
Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the
Volcano Island, 26 February 1945. Promptly destroying
a stubborn 20mm. antiaircraft gun and its crew after
assuming the duties of a bazooka man who had been
killed, Pfc. Jacobson waged a relentless battle as
his unit fought desperately toward the summit of Hill
382 in an effort to penetrate the heart of Japanese
cross-island defense. Employing his weapon with ready
accuracy when his platoon was halted by overwhelming
enemy fire on 26 February, he first destroyed two
hostile machinegun positions, then attacked a large
blockhouse, completely neutralizing the fortification
before dispatching the 5-man crew of a second pillbox
and exploding the installation with a terrific
demolitions blast. Moving steadily forward, he wiped
out an earth-covered rifle emplacement and,
confronted by a cluster of similar emplacements which
constituted the perimeter of enemy defenses in his
assigned sector, fearlessly advanced, quickly reduced
all six positions to a shambles, killed 10 of the
enemy, and enabled our forces to occupy the strong
point. Determined to widen the breach thus forced, he
volunteered his services to an adjacent assault
company, neutralized a pillbox holding up its
advance, opened fire on a Japanese tank pouring a
steady stream of bullets on one of our supporting
tanks, and smashed the enemy tank's gun turret in a
brief but furious action culminating in a
single-handed assault against still another
blockhouse and the subsequent neutralization of its
firepower. By his dauntless skill and valor, Pfc.
Jacobson destroyed a total of 16 enemy positions and
annihilated approximately 75 Japanese, thereby
contributing essentially to the success of his
division's operations against this fanatically
defended outpost of the Japanese Empire. His gallant
conduct in the face of tremendous odds enhanced and
sustained the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service.
26
and 27 February 1945 - WATSON, WILSON DOUGLAS, Private,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as automatic
rifleman serving with the 2d
Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division,
during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo
Jima, Volcano Islands, 26 and 27 February 1945. With
his squad abruptly halted by intense fire from enemy
fortifications in the high rocky ridges and crags
commanding the line of advance, Pvt. Watson boldly
rushed one pillbox and fired into the embrasure with
his weapon, keeping the enemy pinned down
single-handedly until he was in a position to hurl in
a grenade, and then running to the rear of the
emplacement to destroy the retreating Japanese and
enable his platoon to take its objective. Again
pinned down at the foot of a small hill, he
dauntlessly scaled the jagged incline under fierce
mortar and machinegun barrages and, with his
assistant BAR man, charged the crest of the hill,
firing from his hip. Fighting furiously against
Japanese troops attacking with grenades and knee
mortars from the reverse slope, he stood fearlessly
erect in his exposed position to cover the hostile
entrenchments and held the hill under savage fire for
15 minutes, killing 60 Japanese before his ammunition
was exhausted and his platoon was able to join him.
His courageous initiative and valiant fighting spirit
against devastating odds were directly responsible
for the continued advance of his platoon, and his
inspiring leadership throughout this bitterly fought
action reflects the highest credit upon Pvt. Watson
and the U.S. Naval Service.
27
February 1945 - *WALSH, WILLIAM GARY, Gunnery Sergeant,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
extraordinary gallantry and intrepidity at the risk
of his life above and beyond the call of duty as leader
of an assault platoon, attached to Company
G, 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands on 27 February 1945. With the advance
of his company toward Hill 362 disrupted by vicious
machinegun fire from a forward position which guarded
the approaches to this key enemy stronghold, G/Sgt.
Walsh fearlessly charged at the head of his platoon
against the Japanese entrenched on the ridge above
him, utterly oblivious to the unrelenting fury of
hostile automatic weapons fire and hand grenades
employed with fanatic desperation to smash his daring
assault. Thrown back by the enemy's savage
resistance, he once again led his men in a seemingly
impossible attack up the steep, rocky slope, boldly
defiant of the annihilating streams of bullets which
saturated the area. Despite his own casualty losses
and the overwhelming advantage held by the Japanese
in superior numbers and dominant position, he gained
the ridge's top only to be subjected to an intense
barrage of hand grenades thrown by the remaining
Japanese staging a suicidal last stand on the reverse
slope. When one of the grenades fell in the midst of
his surviving men, huddled together in a small
trench, G/Sgt. Walsh, in a final valiant act of
complete self-sacrifice, instantly threw himself upon
the deadly bomb, absorbing with his own body the full
and terrific force of the explosion. Through his
extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the
face of almost certain death, he saved his comrades
from injury and possible loss of life and enabled his
company to seize and hold this vital enemy position.
He gallantly gave his life for his country .
28
February 1945 - *WILLIS, JOHN HARLAN, Pharmacist's Mate
First Class, U.S. Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as Platoon
Corpsman serving with the 3d
Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division,
during operations against enemy Japanese forces on
Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945.
Constantly imperiled by artillery and mortar fire
from strong and mutually supporting pillboxes and
caves studding Hill 362 in the enemy's cross-island
defenses, Willis resolutely administered first aid to
the many marines wounded during the furious close-in
fighting until he himself was struck by shrapnel and
was ordered back to the battle-aid station. Without
waiting for official medical release, he quickly
returned to his company and, during a savage
hand-to-hand enemy counterattack, daringly advanced
to the extreme frontlines under mortar and sniper
fire to aid a marine Iying wounded in a shellhole.
Completely unmindful of his own danger as the
Japanese intensified their attack, Willis calmly
continued to administer blood plasma to his patient,
promptly returning the first hostile grenade which
landed in the shell-hole while he was working and
hurling back seven more in quick succession before
the ninth one exploded in his hand and instantly
killed him. By his great personal valor in saving
others at the sacrifice of his own life, he inspired
his companions, although terrifically outnumbered, to
launch a fiercely determined attack and repulse the
enemy force. His exceptional fortitude and courage in
the performance of duty reflect the highest credit
upon Willis and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
3
March 1945 - *BERRY, CHARLES JOSEPH, Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as member
of a machinegun crew, serving with
the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano
Islands, on 3 March 1945. Stationed in the front
lines, Cpl. Berry manned his weapon with alert
readiness as he maintained a constant vigil with
other members of his guncrew during the hazardous
night hours. When infiltrating Japanese soldiers
launched a surprise attack shortly after midnight in
an attempt to overrun his position, he engaged in a
pitched hand grenade duel, returning the dangerous
weapons with prompt and deadly accuracy until an
enemy grenade landed in the foxhole. Determined to
save his comrades, he unhesitatingly chose to
sacrifice himself and immediately dived on the deadly
missile, absorbing the shattering violence of the
exploding charge in his own body and protecting the
others from serious injury. Stouthearted and
indomitable, Cpl. Berry fearlessly yielded his own
life that his fellow marines might carry on the
relentless battle against a ruthless enemy and his
superb valor and unfaltering devotion to duty in the
face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon
himself and upon the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
3
March 1945 - *CADDY, WILLIAM ROBERT, Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as a rifleman with Company
1, 3d Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces during the
seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 3 March
1945. Consistently aggressive, Pfc. Caddy boldly
defied shattering Japanese machinegun and small arms
fire to move forward with his platoon leader and
another marine during the determined advance of his
company through an isolated sector and, gaining the
comparative safety of a shell hole, took temporary
cover with his comrades. Immediately pinned down by
deadly sniper fire from a well-concealed position, he
made several unsuccessful attempts to again move
forward and then, joined by his platoon leader,
engaged the enemy in a fierce exchange of hand
grenades until a Japanese grenade fell beyond reach
in the shell hole. Fearlessly disregarding all
personal danger, Pfc. Caddy instantly dived on the
deadly missile, absorbing the exploding charge in his
own body and protecting the others from serious
injury. Stouthearted and indomitable, he
unhesitatingly yielded his own life that his fellow
marines might carry on the relentless battle against
a fanatic enemy. His dauntless courage and valiant
spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death
reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Caddy and upon
the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his comrades.
3
March 1945 - HARRELL, WILLIAM GEORGE, Sergeant, U.S.
Marine Corps
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as
leader of an assault group attached
to the 1st Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th
Marine Division during hand-to-hand combat
with enemy Japanese at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on
3 March 1945. Standing watch alternately with another
marine in a terrain studded with caves and ravines,
Sgt. Harrell was holding a position in a perimeter
defense around the company command post when Japanese
troops infiltrated our lines in the early hours of
dawn. Awakened by a sudden attack, he quickly opened
fire with his carbine and killed two of the enemy as
they emerged from a ravine in the light of a star
shellburst. Unmindful of his danger as hostile
grenades fell closer, he waged a fierce lone battle
until an exploding missile tore off his left hand and
fractured his thigh. He was vainly attempting to
reload the carbine when his companion returned from
the command post with another weapon. Wounded again
by a Japanese who rushed the foxhole wielding a saber
in the darkness, Sgt. Harrell succeeded in drawing
his pistol and killing his opponent and then ordered
his wounded companion to a place of safety. Exhausted
by profuse bleeding but still unbeaten, he fearlessly
met the challenge of two more enemy troops who
charged his position and placed a grenade near his
head. Killing one man with his pistol, he grasped the
sputtering grenade with his good right hand, and,
pushing it painfully toward the crouching soldier,
saw his remaining assailant destroyed but his own
hand severed in the explosion. At dawn Sgt. Harrell
was evacuated from a position hedged by the bodies of
12 dead Japanese, at least five of whom he had
personally destroyed in his self-sacrificing defense
of the command post. His grim fortitude, exceptional
valor, and indomitable fighting spirit against almost
insurmountable odds reflect the highest credit upon
himself and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S.
Naval Service.
3
March 1945 - *WILLIAMS, JACK, Pharmacist's Mate Third
Class, U.S. Naval Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with the 3d Battalion 28th Marines,
5th Marine Division, during the occupation
of Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. Gallantly
going forward on the frontlines under intense enemy
small-arms fire to assist a marine wounded in a
fierce grenade battle, Williams dragged the man to a
shallow depression and was kneeling, using his own
body as a screen from the sustained fire as he
administered first aid, when struck in the abdomen
and groin three times by hostile rifle fire.
Momentarily stunned, he quickly recovered and
completed his ministration before applying battle
dressings to his own multiple wounds. Unmindful of
his own urgent need for medical attention, he
remained in the perilous fire-swept area to care for
another marine casualty. Heroically completing his
task despite pain and profuse bleeding, he then
endeavored to make his way to the rear in search of
adequate aid for himself when struck down by a
Japanese sniper bullet which caused his collapse.
Succumbing later as a result of his self-sacrificing
service to others, Williams, by his courageous
determination, unwavering fortitude and valiant
performance of duty, served as an inspiring example
of heroism, in keeping with the highest traditions of
the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his country.
3
March 1945 - WAHLEN, GEORGE EDWARD, Pharmacist's Mate
Second Class, U.S. Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with the 2d Battalion, 26th Marines,
5th Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano
group on 3 March 1945. Painfully wounded in the
bitter action on 26 February, Wahlen remained on the
battlefield, advancing well forward of the frontlines
to aid a wounded marine and carrying him back to
safety despite a terrific concentration of fire.
Tireless in his ministrations, he consistently
disregarded all danger to attend his fighting
comrades as they fell under the devastating rain of
shrapnel and bullets, and rendered prompt assistance
to various elements of his combat group as required.
When an adjacent platoon suffered heavy casualties,
he defied the continuous pounding of heavy mortars
and deadly fire of enemy rifles to care for the
wounded, working rapidly in an area swept by constant
fire and treating 14 casualties before returning to
his own platoon. Wounded again on two March, he
gallantly refused evacuation, moving out with his
company the following day in a furious assault across
600 yards of open terrain and repeatedly rendering
medical aid while exposed to the blasting fury of
powerful Japanese guns. Stouthearted and indomitable,
he persevered in his determined efforts as his unit
waged fierce battle and, unable to walk after
sustaining a third agonizing wound, resolutely
crawled 50 yards to administer first aid to still
another fallen fighter. By his dauntless fortitude
and valor, Wahlen served as a constant inspiration
and contributed vitally to the high morale of his
company during critical phases of this strategically
important engagement. His heroic spirit of
self-sacrifice in the face of overwhelming enemy fire
upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service.
7
March 1945 - LEIMS, JOHN HAROLD, Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as
commanding officer of Company B, 1st
Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima
in the Volcano Islands, 7 March 1945. Launching a
surprise attack against the rock-imbedded
fortification of a dominating Japanese hill position,
2d Lt. Leims spurred his company forward with
indomitable determination and, skillfully directing
his assault platoons against the cave-emplaced enemy
troops and heavily fortified pillboxes, succeeded in
capturing the objective in later afternoon. When it
became apparent that his assault platoons were cut
off in this newly won position, approximately 400
yards forward of adjacent units and lacked all
communication with the command post, he personally
advanced and laid telephone lines across the
isolating expanse of open fire-swept terrain. Ordered
to withdraw his command after he had joined his
forward platoons, he immediately complied, adroitly
effecting the withdrawal of his troops without
incident. Upon arriving at the rear, he was informed
that several casualties had been left at the
abandoned ridge position beyond the frontlines.
Although suffering acutely from the strain and
exhausting of battle, he instantly went forward
despite darkness and the slashing fury of hostile
machinegun fire, located and carried to safety one
seriously wounded marine and then, running the
gauntlet of enemy fire for the third time that night,
again made his tortuous way into the bullet-riddled
deathtrap and rescued another of his wounded men. A
dauntless leader, concerned at all time for the
welfare of his men, 2d Lt. Leims soundly maintained
the coordinated strength of his battle-wearied
company under extremely difficult conditions and, by
his bold tactics, sustained aggressiveness, and
heroic disregard for all personal danger, contributed
essentially to the success of his division's
operations against this vital Japanese base. His
valiant conduct in the face of fanatic opposition
sustains and enhances the highest traditions of the
U.S. Naval Service.
8
March 1945 - *LUMMUS, JACK, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as
leader of a Rifle Platoon attached
to the 2d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 8 March
1945. Resuming his assault tactics with bold decision
after fighting without respite for two days and
nights, 1st Lt. Lummus slowly advanced his platoon
against an enemy deeply entrenched in a network of
mutually supporting positions. Suddenly halted by a
terrific concentration of hostile fire, he
unhesitatingly moved forward of his front lines in an
effort to neutralize the Japanese position. Although
knocked to the ground when an enemy grenade exploded
close by, he immediately recovered himself and, again
moving forward despite the intensified barrage,
quickly located, attacked, and destroyed the occupied
emplacement. Instantly taken under fire by the
garrison of a supporting pillbox and further assailed
by the slashing fury of hostile rifle fire, he fell
under the impact of a second enemy grenade but,
courageously disregarding painful shoulder wounds,
staunchly continued his heroic 1-man assault and
charged the second pillbox, annihilating all the
occupants. Subsequently returning to his platoon
position, he fearlessly traversed his lines under
fire, encouraging his men to advance and directing
the fire of supporting tanks against other stubbornly
holding Japanese emplacements. Held up again by a
devastating barrage, he again moved into the open,
rushed a third heavily fortified installation and
killed the defending troops. Determined to crush all
resistance, he led his men indomitably, personally
attacking foxholes and spider traps with his carbine
and systematically reducing the fanatic opposition
until, stepping on a land mine, he sustained fatal
wounds. By his outstanding valor, skilled tactics,
and tenacious perseverance in the face of
overwhelming odds, 1st Lt. Lummus had inspired his
stouthearted marines to continue the relentless drive
northward, thereby contributing materially to the
success of his regimental mission. His dauntless
leadership and unwavering devotion to duty throughout
sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the
U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the
service of his country.
8
March 1945 - *LA BELLE, JAMES DENNIS, Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
attached to the 27th Marines, 5th Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano
Islands, 8 March 1945. Filling a gap in the front
lines during a critical phase of the battle, Pfc.
LaBelle had dug into a foxhole with two other marines
and, grimly aware of the enemy's persistent attempts
to blast a way through our lines with hand grenades,
applied himself with steady concentration to
maintaining a sharply vigilant watch during the
hazardous night hours. Suddenly a hostile grenade
landed beyond reach in his foxhole. Quickly
estimating the situation, he determined to save the
others if possible, shouted a warning, and instantly
dived on the deadly missile, absorbing the exploding
charge in his own body and thereby protecting his
comrades from serious injury. Stouthearted and
indomitable, he had unhesitatingly relinquished his
own chance of survival that his fellow marines might
carry on the relentless fight against a fanatic enemy
His dauntless courage, cool decision and valiant
spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death
reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. LaBelle and upon
the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in
the service of his country.
9
March 1945 - *JULIAN, JOSEPH RODOLPH, Platoon Sergeant,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as a P/Sgt.
serving with the 1st Battalion, 27th Marines,
5th Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the
Volcano Islands, 9 March 1945. Determined to force a
breakthrough when Japanese troops occupying trenches
and fortified positions on the left front laid down a
terrific machinegun and mortar barrage in a desperate
effort to halt his company's advance, P/Sgt. Julian
quickly established his platoon's guns in strategic
supporting positions, and then, acting on his own
initiative, fearlessly moved forward to execute a
1-man assault on the nearest pillbox. Advancing
alone, he hurled deadly demolition and white
phosphorus grenades into the emplacement, killing two
of the enemy and driving the remaining five out into
the adjoining trench system. Seizing a discarded
rifle, he jumped into the trench and dispatched the
five before they could make an escape. Intent on
wiping out all resistance, he obtained more
explosives and, accompanied by another marine, again
charged the hostile fortifications and knocked out
two more cave positions. Immediately thereafter, he
launched a bazooka attack unassisted, firing four
rounds into the one remaining pillbox and completely
destroying it before he fell, mortally wounded by a
vicious burst of enemy fire. Stouthearted and
indomitable, P/Sgt. Julian consistently disregarded
all personal danger and, by his bold decision, daring
tactics, and relentless fighting spirit during a
critical phase of the battle, contributed materially
to the continued advance of his company and to the
success of his division's operations in the sustained
drive toward the conquest of this fiercely defended
outpost of the Japanese Empire. His outstanding valor
and unfaltering spirit of self-sacrifice throughout
the bitter conflict sustained and enhanced the
highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
14
March 1945 - SIGLER, FRANKLIN EARL, Private, U.S. Marine
Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with the 2d Battalion, 26th Marines,
5th Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the
Volcano Islands on 14 March 1945. Voluntarily taking
command of his rifle squad when the leader became a
casualty, Pvt. Sigler fearlessly led a bold charge
against an enemy gun installation which had held up
the advance of his company for several days and,
reaching the position in advance of the others,
assailed the emplacement with handgrenades and
personally annihilated the entire crew. As additional
Japanese troops opened fire from concealed tunnels
and caves above, he quickly scaled the rocks leading
to the attacking guns, surprised the enemy with a
furious l-man assault and, although severely wounded
in the encounter, deliberately crawled back to his
squad position where he steadfastly refused
evacuation, persistently directing heavy machinegun
and rocket barrages on the Japanese cave entrances.
Undaunted by the merciless rain of hostile fire
during the intensified action, he gallantly
disregarded his own painful wounds to aid casualties,
carrying three wounded squad members to safety behind
the lines and returning to continue the battle with
renewed determination until ordered to retire for
medical treatment. Stouthearted and indomitable in
the face of extreme peril, Pvt. Sigler, by his alert
initiative, unfaltering leadership, and daring
tactics in a critical situation, effected the release
of his besieged company from enemy fire and
contributed essentially to its further advance
against a savagely fighting enemy. His superb valor,
resolute fortitude, and heroic spirit of
self-sacrifice throughout reflect the highest credit
upon Pvt. Sigler and the U.S. Naval Service.
14
March 1945 - *PHILLIPS, GEORGE, Private, U.S. Marine
Corps Reserve
Citation. For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with the 2d Battalion, 28th Marines,
5th Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the
Volcano Islands, on 14 March 1945. Standing the
foxhole watch while other members of his squad rested
after a night of bitter handgrenade fighting against
infiltrating Japanese troops, Pvt. Phillips was the
only member of his unit alerted when an enemy
handgrenade was tossed into their midst. Instantly
shouting a warning, he unhesitatingly threw himself
on the deadly missile, absorbing the shattering
violence of the exploding charge in his own body and
protecting his comrades from serious injury.
Stouthearted and indomitable, Pvt. Phillips willingly
yielded his own life that his fellow marines might
carry on the relentless battle against a fanatic
enemy. His superb valor and unfaltering spirit of
self-sacrifice in the face of certain death reflect
the highest credit upon himself and upon the U.S.
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
15
and 16 March 1945 - PIERCE, FRANCIS JUNIOR, Pharmacist's
Mate First Class, U.S. Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
attached to the 2d Battalion, 24th Marines,
4th Marine Division, during the Iwo Jima
campaign, 15 and 16 March 1945. Almost continuously
under fire while carrying out the most dangerous
volunteer assignments, Pierce gained valuable
knowledge of the terrain and disposition of troops.
Caught in heavy enemy rifle and machinegun fire which
wounded a corpsman and two of the eight stretcher
bearers who were carrying two wounded marines to a
forward aid station on 15 March, Pierce quickly took
charge of the party, carried the newly wounded men to
a sheltered position, and rendered first aid. After
directing the evacuation of three of the casualties,
he stood in the open to draw the enemy's fire and,
with his weapon blasting, enabled the litter bearers
to reach cover. Turning his attention to the other
two casualties he was attempting to stop the profuse
bleeding of one man when a Japanese fired from a cave
less than 20 yards away and wounded his patient
again. Risking his own life to save his patient,
Pierce deliberately exposed himself to draw the
attacker from the cave and destroyed him with the
last of his ammunition Then lifting the wounded man
to his back, he advanced unarmed through deadly rifle
fire across 200 feet of open terrain. Despite
exhaustion and in the face of warnings against such a
suicidal mission, he again traversed the same
fire-swept path to rescue the remaining marine. On
the following morning, he led a combat patrol to the
sniper nest and, while aiding a stricken marine, was
seriously wounded. Refusing aid for himself, he
directed treatment for the casualty, at the same time
maintaining protective fire for his comrades.
Completely fearless, completely devoted to the care
of his patients, Pierce inspired the entire
battalion. His valor in the face of extreme peril
sustains and enhances the finest traditions of the
U.S. Naval Service.
26
March 1945 - *MARTIN, HARRY LINN, First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as platoon
leader attached to Company C, 5th
Pioneer Battalion, 5th Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands, 26 March 1945. With his sector of
the 5th Pioneer Battalion bivouac area penetrated by
a concentrated enemy attack launched a few minutes
before dawn, 1st Lt. Martin instantly organized a
firing line with the marines nearest his foxhole and
succeeded in checking momentarily the headlong rush
of the Japanese. Determined to rescue several of his
men trapped in positions overrun by the enemy, he
defied intense hostile fire to work his way through
the Japanese to the surrounded marines. Although
sustaining two severe wounds, he blasted the Japanese
who attempted to intercept him, located his
beleaguered men and directed them to their own lines.
When four of the infiltrating enemy took possession
of an abandoned machinegun pit and subjected his
sector to a barrage of hand grenades, 1st Lt. Martin,
alone and armed only with a pistol, boldly charged
the hostile position and killed all of its occupants.
Realizing that his few remaining comrades could not
repulse another organized attack, he called to his
men to follow and then charged into the midst of the
strong enemy force, firing his weapon and scattering
them until he fell, mortally wounded by a grenade. By
his outstanding valor, indomitable fighting spirit
and tenacious determination in the face of
overwhelming odds, 1st Lt. Martin permanently
disrupted a coordinated Japanese attack and prevented
a greater loss of life in his own and adjacent
platoons. His inspiring leadership and unswerving
devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon
himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life in the service of his country.
Kamikaze Attack on the U.S.S.
Franklin
19
March 1945 - GARY, DONALD ARTHUR, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, U.S. Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as an
engineering officer attached to the
U.S.S. Franklin (carrier) when that
vessel was fiercely attacked by enemy aircraft during
the operations against the Japanese Home
Islands near Kobe, Japan, 19 March 1945.
Stationed on the third deck when the ship was rocked
by a series of violent explosions set off in her own
ready bombs, rockets, and ammunition by the hostile
attack, Lt. (j.g.) Gary unhesitatingly risked his
life to assist several hundred men trapped in a
messing compartment filled with smoke, and with no
apparent egress. As the imperiled men below decks
became increasingly panic stricken under the raging
fury of incessant explosions, he confidently assured
them he would find a means of effecting their release
and, groping through the dark, debris-filled
corridors, ultimately discovered an escapeway.
Stanchly determined, he struggled back to the messing
compartment three times despite menacing flames,
flooding water, and the ominous threat of sudden
additional explosions, on each occasion calmly
leading his men through the blanketing pall of smoke
until the last one had been saved. Selfless in his
concern for his ship and his fellows, he constantly
rallied others about him, repeatedly organized and
led fire-fighting parties into the blazing inferno on
the flight deck and, when firerooms 1 and 2 were
found to be inoperable, entered the No. 3 fireroom
and directed the raising of steam in one boiler in
the face of extreme difficulty and hazard. An
inspiring and courageous leader, Lt. (j.g.) Gary
rendered self-sacrificing service under the most
perilous conditions and, by his heroic initiative,
fortitude, and valor, was responsible for the saving
of several hundred lives. His conduct throughout
reflects the highest credit upon himself and upon the
U.S. Naval Service.
(According to Morison, the
U.S.S. Franklin suffered 724 men killed and 265
wounded, but still reached port)
19
March 1945 - O'CALLAHAN, JOSEPH TIMOTHY, Commander
(Chaplain Corps), U.S. Naval Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as chaplain on board the U.S.S.
Franklin when that vessel was fiercely
attacked by enemy Japanese aircraft during offensive
operations near Kobe, Japan, on 19 March 1945. A
valiant and forceful leader, calmly braving the
perilous barriers of flame and twisted metal to aid
his men and his ship, Lt. Comdr. O'Callahan groped
his way through smoke-filled corridors to the open
flight deck and into the midst of violently exploding
bombs, shells, rockets, and other armament. With the
ship rocked by incessant explosions, with debris and
fragments raining down and fires raging in
ever-increasing fury, he ministered to the wounded
and dying, comforting and encouraging men of all
faiths; he organized and led firefighting crews into
the blazing inferno on the flight deck; he directed
the jettisoning of live ammunition and the flooding
of the magazine; he manned a hose to cool hot, armed
bombs rolling dangerously on the listing deck,
continuing his efforts, despite searing, suffocating
smoke which forced men to fall back gasping and
imperiled others who replaced them. Serving with
courage, fortitude, and deep spiritual strength, Lt.
Comdr. O'Callahan inspired the gallant officers and
men of the Franklin to fight heroically and with
profound faith in the face of almost certain death
and to return their stricken ship to port.
Submarine Operations, off SW Korean
coast
14
April 1945 - STREET, GEORGE LEVICK, III, Commander, U.S.
Navy
Citation. For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding
officer of the U.S.S. Tiranle during
the first war patrol of that vessel against enemy
Japanese surface forces in the harbor of Quelpart
Island, off the coast of Korea, on 14 April 1945.
With the crew at surface battle stations, Comdr.
(then Lt. Comdr.) Street approached the hostile
anchorage from the south within 1,200 yards of the
coast to complete a reconnoitering circuit of the
island. Leaving the 10-fathom curve far behind he
penetrated the mined and shoal-obstructed waters of
the restricted harbor despite numerous patrolling
vessels and in defiance of five shore-based radar
stations and menacing aircraft. Prepared to fight it
out on the surface if attacked, Comdr. Street went
into action, sending two torpedoes with deadly
accuracy into a large Japanese ammunition ship and
exploding the target in a mountainous and blinding
glare of white flames. With the Tiranle instantly
spotted by the enemy as she stood out plainly in the
flare of light, he ordered the torpedo data computer
set up while retiring and fired his last two
torpedoes to disintegrate in quick succession the
leading frigate and a similar flanking vessel.
Clearing the gutted harbor at emergency full speed
ahead, he slipped undetected along the shoreline,
diving deep as a pursuing patrol dropped a pattern of
depth charges at the point of submergence. His
illustrious record of combat achievement during the
first war patrol of the Tiranle characterizes Comdr.
Street as a daring and skilled leader and reflects
the highest credit
upon himself, his valiant
command, and the U.S. Naval Service.
Invasion of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands,
SW of Japan
15
April 1945 - *GONSALVES, HAROLD, Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as Acting Scout Sergeant
with the 4th Battalion, 15th Marines, 6th
Marine Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain,
15 April 1945. Undaunted by the powerfully organized
opposition encountered on Motobu Peninsula during the
fierce assault waged by his battalion against the
Japanese stronghold at Mount Yaetake, Pfc. Gonsalves
repeatedly braved the terrific enemy bombardment to
aid his forward observation team in directing
well-placed artillery fire. When his commanding
officer determined to move into the front lines in
order to register a more effective bombardment in the
enemy's defensive position, he unhesitatingly
advanced uphill with the officer and another Marine
despite a slashing barrage of enemy mortar and rifle
fire. As they reached the front and a Japanese
grenade fell close within the group, instantly Pfc.
Gonsalves dived on the deadly missile, absorbing the
exploding charge in his own body and thereby
protecting the others from serious and perhaps fatal
wounds. Stouthearted and indomitable, Pfc. Gonsalves
readily yielded his own chances of survival that his
fellow marines might carry on the relentless battle
against a fanatic enemy and his cool decision, prompt
action and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the
face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon
himself and upon the U.S. Naval Service.
16
April 1945 - BUSH, RICHARD EARL, Corporal, U .S. Marine
Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as a squad
leader serving with the 1st
Battalion, 4th Marines, 6th Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces, during the
final assault against Mount Yaetake
on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 16 April 1945. Rallying
his men forward with indomitable determination, Cpl.
Bush boldly defied the slashing fury of concentrated
Japanese artillery fire pouring down from the
gun-studded mountain fortress to lead his squad up
the face of the rocky precipice, sweep over the
ridge, and drive the defending troops from their
deeply entrenched position. With his unit, the first
to break through to the inner defense of Mount
Yaetake, he fought relentlessly in the forefront of
the action until seriously wounded and evacuated with
others under protecting rocks. Although prostrate
under medical treatment when a Japanese hand grenade
landed in the midst of the group, Cpl. Bush, alert
and courageous in extremity as in battle,
unhesitatingly pulled the deadly missile to himself
and absorbed the shattering violence of the exploding
charge in his body, thereby saving his fellow marines
from severe injury or death despite the certain peril
to his own life. By his valiant leadership and
aggressive tactics in the face of savage opposition,
Cpl. Bush contributed materially to the success of
the sustained drive toward the conquest of this
fiercely defended outpost of the Japanese Empire. His
constant concern for the welfare of his men, his
resolute spirit of self-sacrifice, and his unwavering
devotion to duty throughout the bitter conflict
enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the
U.S. Naval Service.
2
May 1945 - BUSH, ROBERT EUGENE, Hospital Apprentice First
Class, U.S. Naval Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as Medical Corpsman with a rifle
company, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines,
1st Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Okinawa Jima, Ryukyu Islands, 2
May 1945. Fearlessly braving the fury of artillery,
mortar, and machinegun fire from strongly entrenched
hostile positions, Bush constantly and unhesitatingly
moved from one casualty to another to attend the
wounded falling under the enemy's murderous barrages.
As the attack passed over a ridge top, Bush was
advancing to administer blood plasma to a marine
officer Iying wounded on the skyline when the
Japanese launched a savage counterattack. In this
perilously exposed position, he resolutely maintained
the flow of life-giving plasma. With the bottle held
high in one hand, Bush drew his pistol with the other
and fired into the enemy's ranks until his ammunition
was expended. Quickly seizing a discarded carbine, he
trained his fire on the Japanese charging pointblank
over the hill, accounting for six of the enemy
despite his own serious wounds and the loss of one
eye suffered during his desperate battle in defense
of the helpless man. With the hostile force finally
routed, he calmly disregarded his own critical
condition to complete his mission, valiantly refusing
medical treatment for himself until his officer
patient had been evacuated, and collapsing only after
attempting to walk to the battle aid station. His
daring initiative, great personal valor, and heroic
spirit of self-sacrifice in service of others reflect
great credit upon Bush and enhance the finest
traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
2
May 1945 - *FOSTER, WILLIAM ADELBERT, Private First
Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as a rifleman with the 3d
Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa
Shima in the Ryukyu Chain 2 May 1945. Dug in with
another marine on the point of the perimeter defense
after waging a furious assault against a strongly
fortified Japanese position, Pfc. Foster and his
comrade engaged in a fierce hand grenade duel with
infiltrating enemy soldiers. Suddenly an enemy
grenade landed beyond reach in the foxhole. Instantly
diving on the deadly missile, Pfc. Foster absorbed
the exploding charge in his own body, thereby
protecting the other marine from serious injury.
Although mortally wounded as a result of his heroic
action, he quickly rallied, handed his own remaining
two grenades to his comrade and said, "Make them
count." Stouthearted and indomitable, he had
unhesitatingly relinquished his own chance of
survival that his fellow marine might carry on the
relentless fight against a fanatic enemy, and his
dauntless determination, cool decision and valiant
spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death
reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Foster and upon
the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in
the service of his country.
4
May 1945 - *KINSER, ELBERT LUTHER, Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
acting as leader of a Rifle
Platoon, serving with Company I, 3d
Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division,
in action against Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in
the Ryukyu Chain, 4 May 1945. Taken under sudden,
close attack by hostile troops entrenched on the
reverse slope while moving up a strategic ridge along
which his platoon was holding newly won positions,
Sgt. Kinser engaged the enemy in a fierce hand
grenade battle. Quick to act when a Japanese grenade
landed in the immediate vicinity, Sgt. Kinser
unhesitatingly threw himself on the deadly missile,
absorbing the full charge of the shattering explosion
in his own body and thereby protecting his men from
serious injury and possible death. Stouthearted and
indomitable, he had yielded his own chance of
survival that his comrades might live to carry on the
relentless battle against a fanatic enemy. His
courage, cool decision and valiant spirit of
self-sacrifice in the face of certain death sustained
and enhanced the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
7
May 1945 - *FARDY, JOHN PETER, Corporal, U.S Marine Corps
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as a squad
leader, serving with Company C, 1st
Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa
Shima in the Ryukyu Islands, 7 May 1945. When his
squad was suddenly assailed by extremely heavy small
arms fire from the front during a determined advance
against strongly fortified, fiercely defended
Japanese positions, Cpl. Fardy temporarily deployed
his men along a nearby drainage ditch. Shortly
thereafter, an enemy grenade fell among the marines
in the ditch. Instantly throwing himself upon the
deadly missile, Cpl. Fardy absorbed the exploding
blast in his own body, thereby protecting his
comrades from certain and perhaps fatal injuries.
Concerned solely for the welfare of his men, he
willingly relinquished his own hope of survival that
his fellow marines might live to carry on the fight
against a fanatic enemy. A stouthearted leader and
indomitable fighter, Cpl. Fardy, by his prompt
decision and resolute spirit of self-sacrifice in the
face of certain death, had rendered valiant service,
and his conduct throughout reflects the highest
credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
7
May 1945 - *HANSEN, DALE MERLIN, Private, U.S. Marine
Corps
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st
Marines, 1st Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the
Ryukyu Chain, 7 May 1945. Cool and courageous in
combat, Pvt. Hansen unhesitatingly took the
initiative during a critical stage of the action and,
armed with a rocket launcher, crawled to an exposed
position where he attacked and destroyed a
strategically located hostile pillbox. With his
weapon subsequently destroyed by enemy fire, he
seized a rifle and continued his 1-man assault.
Reaching the crest of a ridge, he leaped across,
opened fire on six Japanese and killed four before
his rifle jammed. Attacked by the remaining two
Japanese, he beat them off with the butt of his rifle
and then climbed back to cover. Promptly returning
with another weapon and supply of grenades, he
fearlessly advanced, destroyed a strong mortar
position and annihilated eight more of the enemy. In
the forefront of battle throughout this bitterly
waged engagement, Pvt. Hansen, by his indomitable
determination, bold tactics and complete disregard of
all personal danger, contributed essentially to the
success of his company's mission and to the ultimate
capture of this fiercely defended outpost of the
Japanese Empire. His great personal valor in the face
of extreme peril reflects the highest credit upon
himself and the U.S. Naval Service.
7
May 1945 -*SCHWAB, ALBERT EARNEST, Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as a flamethrower
operator in action against enemy Japanese
forces on Okinawa Shima in the Rykuyu Islands, 7 May
1945. Quick to take action when his company was
pinned down in a valley and suffered resultant heavy
casualties under blanketing machinegun fire emanating
from a high ridge to the front, Pfc. Schwab, unable
to flank the enemy emplacement because of steep
cliffs on either side, advanced up the face of the
ridge in bold defiance of the intense barrage and,
skillfully directing the fire of his flamethrower,
quickly demolished the hostile gun position, thereby
enabling his company to occupy the ridge. Suddenly a
second enemy machinegun opened fire, killing and
wounding several marines with its initial bursts.
Estimating with split-second decision the tactical
difficulties confronting his comrades, Pfc. Schwab
elected to continue his l-man assault despite a
diminished supply of fuel for his flamethrower. Cool
and indomitable, he moved forward in the face of a
direct concentration of hostile fire, relentlessly
closed the enemy position and attacked. Although
severely wounded by a final vicious blast from the
enemy weapon, Pfc. Schwab had succeeded in destroying
two highly strategic Japanese gun positions during a
critical stage of the operation and, by his
dauntless, single-handed efforts, had materially
furthered the advance of his company. His aggressive
initiative, outstanding valor and professional skill
throughout the bitter conflict sustain and enhance
the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
10
May 1945 - *HALYBURTON, WILLIAM DAVID, JR., Pharmacist's
Mate Second Class, U.S. Naval Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with a Marine Rifle Company in
the 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine
Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain,
10 May 1945. Undaunted by the deadly accuracy of
Japanese counterfire as his unit pushed the attack
through a strategically important draw, Halyburton
unhesitatingly dashed across the draw and up the hill
into an open fire-swept field where the company
advance squad was suddenly pinned down under a
terrific concentration of mortar, machinegun and
sniper fire with resultant severe casualties. Moving
steadily forward despite the enemy's merciless
barrage, he reached the wounded marine who lay
farthest away and was rendering first aid when his
patient was struck for the second time by a Japanese
bullet. Instantly placing himself in the direct line
of fire, he shielded the fallen fighter with his own
body and staunchly continued his ministrations
although constantly menaced by the slashing fury of
shrapnel and bullets falling on all sides. Alert,
determined and completely unselfish in his concern
for the helpless marine, he persevered in his efforts
until he himself sustained mortal wounds and
collapsed, heroically sacrificing himself that his
comrade might live. By his outstanding valor and
unwavering devotion to duty in the face of tremendous
odds, Halyburton sustained and enhanced the highest
traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life in the service of his country.
14
May 1945 - *HAUGE, LOUIS JAMES, JR., Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as leader
of a machinegun squad
serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st
Marines, 1st Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the
Ryukyu Chain on 14 May 1945. Alert and aggressive
during a determined assault against a strongly
fortified Japanese hill position, Cpl. Hauge boldly
took the initiative when his company's left flank was
pinned down under a heavy machinegun and mortar
barrage with resultant severe casualties and, quickly
locating the two machineguns which were delivering
the uninterrupted stream of enfilade fire, ordered
his squad to maintain a covering barrage as he rushed
across an exposed area toward the furiously blazing
enemy weapons. Although painfully wounded as he
charged the first machinegun, he launched a vigorous
single-handed grenade attack, destroyed the entire
hostile gun position and moved relentlessly forward
toward the other emplacement despite his wounds and
the increasingly heavy Japanese fire. Undaunted by
the savage opposition, he again hurled his deadly
grenades with unerring aim and succeeded in
demolishing the second enemy gun before he fell under
the slashing fury of Japanese sniper fire. By his
ready grasp of the critical situation and his heroic
1-man assault tactics, Cpl. Hauge had eliminated two
strategically placed enemy weapons, thereby releasing
the besieged troops from an overwhelming volume of
hostile fire and enabling his company to advance. His
indomitable fighting spirit and decisive valor in the
face of almost certain death reflect the highest
credit upon Cpl. Hauge and the U.S. Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life in the service of his
country.
14
and 15 May 1945 - *COURTNEY, HENRY ALEXIUS, JR., Major,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as
Executive Officer of the 2d
Battalion, 22d Marines, 6th Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa
Shima in the Ryukyu Islands, 14 and 15 May 1945.
Ordered to hold for the night in static defense
behind Sugar Loaf Hill after leading the forward
elements of his command in a prolonged fire fight,
Maj. Courtney weighed the effect of a hostile night
counterattack against the tactical value of an
immediate marine assault, resolved to initiate the
assault, and promptly obtained permission to advance
and seize the forward slope of the hill. Quickly
explaining the situation to his small remaining
force, he declared his personal intention of moving
forward and then proceeded on his way, boldly
blasting nearby cave positions and neutralizing enemy
guns as he went. Inspired by his courage, every man
followed without hesitation, and together the
intrepid marines braved a terrific concentration of
Japanese gunfire to skirt the hill on the right and
reach the reverse slope. Temporarily halting, Maj.
Courtney sent guides to the rear for more ammunition
and possible replacements. Subsequently reinforced by
26 men and an LVT load of grenades, he determined to
storm the crest of the hill and crush any planned
counterattack before it could gain sufficient
momentum to effect a breakthrough. Leading his men by
example rather than by command, he pushed ahead with
unrelenting aggressiveness, hurling grenades into
cave openings on the slope with devastating effect.
Upon reaching the crest and observing large numbers
of Japanese forming for action less than 100 yards
away, he instantly attacked, waged a furious battle
and succeeded in killing many of the enemy and in
forcing the remainder to take cover in the caves.
Determined to hold, he ordered his men to dig in and,
coolly disregarding the continuous hail of flying
enemy shrapnel to rally his weary troops, tirelessly
aided casualties and assigned his men to more
advantageous positions. Although instantly killed by
a hostile mortar burst while moving among his men,
Maj. Courtney, by his astute military acumen,
indomitable leadership and decisive action in the
face of overwhelming odds, had contributed
essentially to the success of the Okinawa campaign.
His great personal valor throughout sustained and
enhanced the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
7
June 1945 - *McTUREOUS, ROBERT MILLER, JR., Private, U.S.
Marine Corps
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty, while
serving with the 3d Battalion, 29th Marines,
6th Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa in the Ryukyu Chain,
7 June 1945. Alert and ready for any hostile
counteraction following his company's seizure of an
important hill objective, Pvt. McTureous was quick to
observe the plight of company stretcher bearers who
were suddenly assailed by slashing machinegun fire as
they attempted to evacuate wounded at the rear of the
newly won position. Determined to prevent further
casualties, he quickly filled his jacket with hand
grenades and charged the enemy-occupied caves from
which the concentrated barrage was emanating. Coolly
disregarding all personal danger as he waged his
furious 1-man assault, he smashed grenades into the
cave entrances, thereby diverting the heaviest fire
from the stretcher bearers to his own person and,
resolutely returning to his own lines under a
blanketing hail of rifle and machinegun fire to
replenish his supply of grenades, dauntlessly
continued his systematic reduction of Japanese
strength until he himself sustained serious wounds
after silencing a large number of the hostile guns.
Aware of his own critical condition and unwilling to
further endanger the lives of his comrades, he
stoically crawled a distance of 200 yards to a
sheltered position within friendly lines before
calling for aid. By his fearless initiative and bold
tactics, Pvt. McTureous had succeeded in neutralizing
the enemy fire, killing six Japanese troops and
effectively disorganizing the remainder of the
savagely defending garrison. His outstanding valor
and heroic spirit of self-sacrifice during a critical
stage of operations reflect the highest credit upon
himself and the U.S. Naval
8
June 1945 - *LESTER, FRED FAULKNER, Hospital Apprentice
First Class, U.S. Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving as a Medical Corpsman with
an Assault Rifle Platoon, attached
to the 1st Battalion, 22d Marines, 6th Marine
Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain,
8 June 1945. Quick to spot a wounded marine Iying in
an open field beyond the front lines following the
relentless assault against a strategic Japanese hill
position, Lester unhesitatingly crawled toward the
casualty under a concentrated barrage from hostile
machineguns, rifles, and grenades. Torn by enemy
rifle bullets as he inched forward, he stoically
disregarded the mounting fury of Japanese fire and
his own pain to pull the wounded man toward a covered
position. Struck by enemy fire a second time before
he reached cover, he exerted tremendous effort and
succeeded in pulling his comrade to safety where, too
seriously wounded himself to administer aid, he
instructed two of his squad in proper medical
treatment of the rescued marine. Realizing that his
own wounds were fatal, he staunchly refused medical
attention for himself and, gathering his fast-waning
strength with calm determination, coolly and expertly
directed his men in the treatment of two other
wounded marines, succumbing shortly thereafter.
Completely selfless in his concern for the welfare of
his fighting comrades, Lester, by his indomitable
spirit, outstanding valor, and competent direction of
others, had saved the life of one who otherwise must
have perished and had contributed to the safety of
countless others. Lester's fortitude in the face of
certain death sustains and enhances the highest
traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
Kamikaze Attacks on U.S. Shipping
off Okinawa
10
and 11 June 1945 - McCOOL, RICHARD MILES, Lieutenant,
U.S. Navy
Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of
his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding
officer of the U.S.S. LSC(L)(3) 122
during operations against enemy Japanese forces in
the Ryukyu chain, 10 and 11 June 1945. Sharply
vigilant during hostile air raids against Allied
ships on radar picket duty off Okinawa on 10 June,
Lt. McCool aided materially in evacuating all
survivors from a sinking destroyer which had
sustained mortal damage under the devastating
attacks. When his own craft was attacked
simultaneously by two of the enemy's suicide squadron
early in the evening of 11 June, he instantly hurled
the full power of his gun batteries against the
plunging aircraft, shooting down the first and
damaging the second before it crashed his station in
the conning tower and engulfed the immediate area in
a mass of flames. Although suffering from shrapnel
wounds and painful burns, he rallied his
concussion-shocked crew and initiated vigorous
firefighting measures and then proceeded to the
rescue of several trapped in a blazing compartment,
subsequently carrying one man to safety despite the
excruciating pain of additional severe burns.
Unmindful of all personal danger, he continued his
efforts without respite until aid arrived from other
ships and he was evacuated. By his staunch
leadership, capable direction, and indomitable
determination throughout the crisis, Lt. McCool saved
the lives of many who otherwise might have perished
and contributed materially to the saving of his ship
for further combat service. His valiant spirit of
self-sacrifice in the face of extreme peril sustains
and enhances the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service.
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