World War II Medal of Honor Recipient. Born in in Atlanta, Georgia and served as a Sergeant, in Lieutenant Colonel Evans F. Carlson’s 2nd Raider Battalion, U.S. Marines. On August 17, 1942, he was in the lead Marine Raider advance against the Japanese held Island of Makin Atoll. He disposed his men with keen judgment and discrimination. His leadership and personal valor exhorted them to fearless efforts. Later in action while leading an assault against an enemy position he gave his life. In January 1943, his Medal was posthumously presented to his mother by Under Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal, at Washington, D.C. He was also the first enlisted Marine of WW II to receive the Medal of Honor.
World War II Medal of Honor Recipient. Born in in Atlanta, Georgia and served as a Sergeant, in Lieutenant Colonel Evans F. Carlson’s 2nd Raider Battalion, U.S. Marines. On August 17, 1942, he was in the lead Marine Raider advance against the Japanese held Island of Makin Atoll. He disposed his men with keen judgment and discrimination. His leadership and personal valor exhorted them to fearless efforts. Later in action while leading an assault against an enemy position he gave his life. In January 1943, his Medal was posthumously presented to his mother by Under Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal, at Washington, D.C. He was also the first enlisted Marine of WW II to receive the Medal of Honor.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
Inscription
MEDAL OF HONOR
SGT
US MARINE CORPS
WORLD WAR II
PURPLE HEART
Family Members
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