World War II Medal of Honor recipient. Born in Claude, Texas, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on December 12, 1942. He served as a Private First Class with the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, at Peleiu Island, Palau Group. His citation reads "On September 18, 1944, he and his companions were suddenly engaged in a furious exchange of hand grenades with Japanese forces emplaced in a cave. Seeking protection with four other Marines in rocky terrain, he was wounded by an enemy grenade which fell close to their position. When another grenade landed in the midst of the group, he flung himself upon it, absorbing the full impact of the explosion. By his prompt action and selfless conduct he saved the lives of four men. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry Truman in July 1945. A cenotaph was erected for him in Claude Cemetery, Claude, Armstrong County, Texas.
World War II Medal of Honor recipient. Born in Claude, Texas, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on December 12, 1942. He served as a Private First Class with the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, at Peleiu Island, Palau Group. His citation reads "On September 18, 1944, he and his companions were suddenly engaged in a furious exchange of hand grenades with Japanese forces emplaced in a cave. Seeking protection with four other Marines in rocky terrain, he was wounded by an enemy grenade which fell close to their position. When another grenade landed in the midst of the group, he flung himself upon it, absorbing the full impact of the explosion. By his prompt action and selfless conduct he saved the lives of four men. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry Truman in July 1945. A cenotaph was erected for him in Claude Cemetery, Claude, Armstrong County, Texas.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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