Medal of Honor recipients (July 1944)

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PFC William Kenzo Nakamura, 22, USA (1922–1944)

Company G, 2nd Battalion, 442 RCT – attached to the 34th Infantry Division
Near Castellina, Italy
July 4, 1944
Presented June 21, 2000
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to PFC William Kenzo Nakamura (ASN: 39918272), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on July 4, 1944, near Castellina, Italy.

During a fierce firefight, PFC Nakamura’s platoon became pinned down by enemy machine-gun fire from a concealed position. On his own initiative, PFC Nakamura crawled 20 yards toward the hostile nest with fire from the enemy machine gun barely missing him. Reaching a point 15 yards from the position, he quickly raised himself to a kneeling position and threw four hand grenades, killing or wounding at least three of the enemy soldiers. The enemy weapon silenced, PFC Nakamura crawled back to his platoon, which was able to continue its advance as a result of his courageous action. Later, his company was ordered to withdraw from the crest of a hill so that a mortar barrage could be placed on the ridge. On his own initiative, PFC Nakamura remained in position to cover his comrades’ withdrawal. While moving toward the safety of a wooded draw, his platoon became pinned down by deadly machine-gun fire. Crawling to a point from which he could fire on the enemy position, PFC Nakamura quickly and accurately fired his weapon to pin down the enemy machine gunners. His platoon was then able to withdraw to safety without further casualties. PFC Nakamura was killed during this heroic stand. PFC Nakamura’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

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PFC Frank H. Ono, 21, USA (1923–1980)

Company G, 2nd Battalion, 442 RCT – attached to the 34th Infantry Division
Near Castellina, Italy
July 4, 1944
Presented June 21, 2000
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to PFC Frank H. Ono (ASN: 35893759), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on July 4, 1944, near Castellina, Italy.

In attacking a heavily defended hill, PFC Ono’s squad was caught in a hail of formidable fire from the well-entrenched enemy. PFC Ono opened fire with his automatic rifle and silenced one machine gun 300 yards to the right front. Advancing through incessant fire, he killed a sniper with another burst of fire, and while his squad leader reorganized the rest of the platoon in the rear, he alone defended the critical position. His weapon was then wrenched from his grasp by a burst of enemy machine-pistol fire as enemy troops attempted to close in on him. Hurling hand grenades, PFC Ono forced the enemy to abandon the attempt, resolutely defending the newly-won ground until the rest of the platoon moved forward. Taking a wounded comrade’s rifle, PFC Ono again joined in the assault. After killing two more enemy soldiers, he boldly ran through withering automatic, small arms, and mortar fire to render first aid to his platoon leader and a seriously wounded rifleman. In danger of being encircled, the platoon was ordered to withdraw. Volunteering to cover the platoon, PFC Ono occupied virtually unprotected positions near the crest of the hill, engaging an enemy machine gun emplaced on an adjoining ridge and exchanging fire with snipers armed with machine pistols. Completely disregarding his own safety, he made himself the constant target of concentrated enemy fire until the platoon reached the comparative safety of a draw. He then descended the hill in stages, firing his rifle, until he rejoined the platoon. PFC Ono’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

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LTC William Joseph O’Brien, 44, USA (1899–1944)

1st Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division
Saipan, Mariana Islands
June 20 – July 7, 1944
Presented May 9, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to LTC William Joseph O’Brien, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty at Saipan, Mariana Islands, from June 20 through July 7, 1944, while serving with 1st Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division.

When assault elements of his platoon were held up by intense enemy fire, LTC O’Brien ordered three tanks to precede the assault companies in an attempt to knock out the strongpoint. Due to direct enemy fire the tanks’ turrets were closed, causing the tanks to lose direction and to fire into our own troops. LTC O’Brien, with complete disregard for his own safety, dashed into full view of the enemy and ran to the leader’s tank, and pounded on the tank with his pistol butt to attract two of the tank’s crew and, mounting the tank fully exposed to enemy fire, LTC O’Brien personally directed the assault until the enemy strongpoint had been liquidated. On June 28, 1944, while his platoon was attempting to take a bitterly defended high ridge in the vicinity of Donnay, LTC O’Brien arranged to capture the ridge by a double envelopment movement of two large combat battalions. He personally took control of the maneuver. LTC O’Brien crossed 1,200 yards of sniper-infested underbrush alone to arrive at a point where one of his platoons was being held up by the enemy. Leaving some men to contain the enemy he personally led four men into a narrow ravine behind, and killed or drove off all the Japanese manning that strongpoint. In this action he captured five machine guns and one 77mm fieldpiece. LTC O’Brien then organized the two platoons for night defense and against repeated counterattacks directed them. Meanwhile he managed to hold ground. On July 7, 1944, his battalion and another battalion were attacked by an overwhelming enemy force estimated at between 3,000 and 5,000 Japanese. With bloody hand-to-hand fighting in progress everywhere, their forward positions were finally overrun by the sheer weight of the enemy numbers. With many casualties and ammunition running low, LTC O’Brien refused to leave the frontlines. Striding up and down the lines, he fired at the enemy with a pistol in each hand and his presence there bolstered the spirits of the men, encouraged them in their fight and sustained them in their heroic stand. Even after he was seriously wounded, LTC O’Brien refused to be evacuated and after his pistol ammunition was exhausted, he manned a .50 caliber machine gun, mounted on a jeep, and continued firing. When last seen alive, he was standing upright firing into the Jap hordes that were then enveloping him. Sometime later his body was found surrounded by enemy he had killed. His valor was consistent with the highest traditions of the service.

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PFC Harold Christ Agerholm, 19, USMCR (1925–1944)

4th Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division
Saipan, Mariana Islands
July 7, 1944
Presented June 25, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to PFC Harold Christ Agerholm, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the Fourth Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, July 7, 1944.

When the enemy launched a fierce, determined counterattack against our positions and overran a neighboring artillery battalion, PFC Agerholm immediately volunteered to assist in the efforts to check the hostile attack and evacuate our wounded. Locating and appropriating an abandoned ambulance jeep, he repeatedly made extremely perilous trips under heavy rifle and mortar fire and single-handedly loaded and evacuated approximately 45 casualties, working tirelessly and with utter disregard for his own safety during a grueling period of more than three hours. Despite intense, persistent enemy fire, he ran out to aid two men whom he believed to be wounded Marines but was himself mortally wounded by a Japanese sniper while carrying out his hazardous mission. PFC Agerholm’s brilliant initiative, great personal valor and self-sacrificing efforts in the face of almost certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

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PVT Thomas Alexander Baker Jr., 28, USA (1916–1944)

Company A, 1st Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division
Saipan, Mariana Islands
June 19 – July 7, 1944
Presented May 9, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to SGT [then PVT] Thomas Alexander Baker Jr., United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company A, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division, in action at Saipan, Mariana Islands, June 19 to July 7, 1944.

When his entire company was held up by fire from automatic weapons and small-arms fire from strongly fortified enemy positions that commanded the view of the company, SGT Baker voluntarily took a bazooka and dashed alone to within 100 yards of the enemy. Through heavy rifle and machinegun fire that was directed at him by the enemy, he knocked out the strong point, enabling his company to assault the ridge. Some days later while his company advanced across the open field flanked with obstructions and places of concealment for the enemy, SGT Baker again voluntarily took up a position in the rear to protect the company against surprise attack and came upon two heavily fortified enemy pockets manned by two officers and ten enlisted men which had been bypassed. Without regard for such superior numbers, he unhesitatingly attacked and killed all of them. Five hundred yards farther, he discovered six men of the enemy who had concealed themselves behind our lines and destroyed all of them. On July 7, 1944, the perimeter of which SGT Baker was a part was attacked from three sides by from 3,000 to 5,000 Japanese. During the early stages of this attack, SGT Baker was seriously wounded but he insisted on remaining in the line and fired at the enemy at ranges sometimes as close as five yards until his ammunition ran out. Without ammunition and with his own weapon battered to uselessness from hand-to-hand combat, he was carried about 50 yards to the rear by a comrade, who was then himself wounded. At this point SGT Baker refused to be moved any farther stating that he preferred to be left to die rather than risk the lives of any more of his friends. A short time later, at his request, he was placed in a sitting position against a small tree. Another comrade, withdrawing, offered assistance. SGT Baker refused, insisting that he be left alone and be given a soldier’s pistol with its remaining eight rounds of ammunition. When last seen alive, SGT Baker was propped against a tree, pistol in hand, calmly facing the foe. Later SGT Baker’s body was found in the same position, gun empty, with eight Japanese lying dead before him. His deeds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.

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PFC Kaoru Mato, 27, USA (1917–1992)

Company C, 100th Infantry Battalion, 442 RCT – attached to the 34th Infantry Division
Near Castellina, Italy
July 7, 1944
Presented June 21, 2000
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to PFC Kaoru Moto (ASN: 30101272), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company C, 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on July 7, 1944, near Castellina, Italy.

While serving as first scout, PFC Moto observed a machine-gun nest that was hindering his platoon’s progress. On his own initiative, he made his way to a point ten paces from the hostile position, and killed the enemy machine gunner. Immediately, the enemy assistant gunner opened fire in the direction of PFC Moto. Crawling to the rear of the position, PFC Moto surprised the enemy soldier, who quickly surrendered. Taking his prisoner with him, PFC Moto took a position a few yards from a house to prevent the enemy from using the building as an observation post. While guarding the house and his prisoner, he observed an enemy machine gun team moving into position. He engaged them, and with deadly fire forced the enemy to withdraw. An enemy sniper located in another house fired at PFC Moto, severely wounding him. Applying first aid to his wound, he changed position to elude the sniper fire and to advance. Finally relieved of his position, he made his way to the rear for treatment. Crossing a road, he spotted an enemy machine-gun nest. Opening fire, he wounded two of the three soldiers occupying the position. Not satisfied with this accomplishment, he then crawled forward to a better position and ordered the enemy soldier to surrender. Receiving no answer, PFC Moto fired at the position, and the soldiers surrendered. PFC Moto’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

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CAPT Benjamin Lewis Salomon, 29, USA (1914–1944)

2nd Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division
Saipan, Mariana Islands
July 7, 1944
Presented May 1, 2002
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to CAPT Benjamin Lewis Salomon, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty.

CAPT Ben. L. Salomon was serving at Saipan, in the Mariana Islands on July 7, 1944, as the Surgeon for the 2nd Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division. The Regiment’s 1st and 2nd Battalions were attacked by an overwhelming force estimated between 3,000 and 5,000 Japanese soldiers. It was one of the largest attacks attempted in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Although both units fought furiously, the enemy soon penetrated the Battalions’ combined perimeter and inflicted overwhelming casualties. In the first minutes of the attack, approximately 30 wounded soldiers walked, crawled or were carried into CAPT Salomon’s aid station, and the small tent soon filled with wounded men. As the perimeter began to be overrun, it became increasingly difficult for CAPT Salomon to work on the wounded. He then saw a Japanese soldier bayoneting one of the wounded soldiers lying near the tent. Firing from a squatting position, CAPT Salomon quickly killed the enemy soldier. Then, as he turned his attention back to the wounded, two more Japanese soldiers appeared in the front entrance of the tent. As these enemy soldiers were killed, four more crawled under the tent walls. Rushing them, CAPT Salomon kicked the knife out of the hand of one, shot another and bayoneted a third. CAPT Salomon butted the fourth enemy soldier in the stomach and a wounded comrade then shot and killed the enemy soldier. Realizing the gravity of the situation, CAPT Salomon ordered the wounded to make their way as best they could back to the regimental aid station, while he attempted to hold off the enemy until they were clear. CAPT Salomon then grabbed a rifle from one of the wounded and rushed out of the tent. After four men were killed while manning a machine gun, CAPT Salomon took control of it. When his body was later found, 98 dead enemy soldiers were piled in front of his position. CAPT Salomon’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

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TSGT Ted Takayuki Tanouye, 24, USA (1919–1944)

Company K, 3rd Battalion, 442 RCT – attached to the 34th Infantry Division
Near Molino a Ventoabbto, Italy
July 7, 1944
Presented June 21, 2000
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to TSGT Ted T. Tanouye (ASN: 39019913), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on July 7, 1944, near Molino a Ventoabbto, Italy.

TSGT Tanouye led his platoon in an attack to capture the crest of a strategically important hill that afforded little cover. Observing an enemy machine-gun crew placing its gun in position to his left front, TSGT Tanouye crept forward a few yards and opened fire on the position, killing or wounding three and causing two others to disperse. Immediately, an enemy machine pistol opened fire on him. He returned the fire and killed or wounded three more enemy soldiers. While advancing forward, TSGT Tanouye was subjected to grenade bursts, which severely wounded his left arm. Sighting an enemy-held trench, he raked the position with fire from his submachine gun and wounded several of the enemy. Running out of ammunition, he crawled 20 yards to obtain several clips from a comrade on his left flank. Next, sighting an enemy machine pistol that had pinned down his men, TSGT Tanouye crawled forward a few yards and threw a hand grenade into the position, silencing the pistol. He then located another enemy machine gun firing down the slope of the hill, opened fire on it, and silenced that position. Drawing fire from a machine-pistol nest located above him, he opened fire on it and wounded three of its occupants. Finally taking his objective, TSGT Tanouye organized a defensive position on the reverse slope of the hill before accepting first aid treatment and evacuation. TSGT Tanouye’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

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SGT Grant Frederick Timmerman, 25, USMC (1919–1944)

2nd Tank Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division
Saipan, Mariana Islands
July 8, 1944
Presented July 8, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to SGT Grant Frederick Timmerman, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as tank commander serving with the Second Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, on July 8, 1944.

Advancing with his tank a few yards ahead of the infantry in support of a vigorous attack on hostile positions, SGT Timmerman maintained steady fire from his anti-aircraft sky mount machinegun until progress was impeded by a series of enemy trenches and pillboxes. Observing a target of opportunity, he immediately ordered the tank stopped and, mindful of the danger from the muzzle blast as he prepared to open fire with the 75mm, fearlessly stood up in the exposed turret and ordered the infantry to hit the deck. Quick to act as a grenade, hurled by the Japanese, was about to drop into the open turret hatch, SGT Timmerman unhesitatingly blocked the opening with his body holding the grenade against his chest and taking the brunt of the explosion. His exception valor and loyalty in saving his men at the cost of his own life reflect the highest credit upon SGT Timmerman and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.

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1LT Donald Dale Pucket, 28, USAAF (1915–1944)

343 BS, 98 BG(H), 8th Air Force
Ploești, Romania
July 9, 1944
Presented June 23, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to 1LT (Air Corps) Donald Dale Pucket (ASN: 0-692817), United States Army Air Forces, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 343rd Bombardment Squadron, 98th Bombardment Group (H), Eighth Air Force.

1LT Pucket took part in a highly effective attack against vital oil installation in Ploești, Romania, on July 9, 1944. Just after “bombs away,” the plane received heavy and direct hits from anti-aircraft fire. One crew member was instantly killed and six others severely wounded. The airplane was badly damaged, two were knocked out, the control cables cut, the oxygen system on fire, and the bomb bay flooded with gas and hydraulic fluid. Regaining control of his crippled plane, 1LT Pucket turned its direction over to the copilot. He calmed the crew, administered first aid, and surveyed the damage. Finding the bomb bay doors jammed, he used the hand crank to open them to allow the gas to escape. He jettisoned all guns and equipment but the plane continued to lose altitude rapidly. Realizing that it would be impossible to reach friendly territory he ordered the crew to abandon ship. Three of the crew, uncontrollable from fright or shock, would not leave. 1LT Pucket urged the others to jump. Ignoring their entreaties to follow, he refused to abandon the three hysterical men and was last seen fighting to regain control of the plane. A few moments later the flaming bomber crashed on a mountainside. 1LT Pucket, unhesitatingly and with supreme sacrifice, gave his life in his courageous attempt to save the lives of three others.

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SSG Gerald Leon Endl, 28, USA (1915–1944)

128th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division
Near Anamo, New Guinea
July 11, 1944
Presented March 13, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to SSG Gerald Leon Endl, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 32nd Infantry Division near Anamo, New Guinea, on July 11, 1944.

SSG Endl was at the head of the leading platoon of his company advancing along a jungle trail when enemy troops were encountered and a fire fight developed. The enemy attacked in force under heavy rifle, machine-gun, and grenade fire. His platoon leader wounded, SSG Endl immediately assumed command and deployed his platoon on a firing line at the fork in the trail toward which the enemy attack was directed. The dense jungle terrain greatly restricted vision and movement, and he endeavored to penetrate down the trail toward an open clearing of Kunai grass. As he advanced, he detected the enemy, supported by at least six light and two heavy machineguns, attempting an enveloping movement around both flanks. His commanding officer sent a second platoon to move up on the left flank of the position, but the enemy closed in rapidly, placing our force in imminent danger of being isolated and annihilated. Twelve members of his platoon were wounded, seven being cut off by the enemy. Realizing that if his platoon were forced farther back, these seven men would be hopelessly trapped and at the mercy of a vicious enemy, he resolved to advance at all cost, knowing it meant almost certain death, in an effort to rescue his comrades. In the face of extremely heavy fire, he went forward alone and for a period of approximately ten minutes engaged the enemy in a heroic close-range fight, holding them off while his men crawled forward under cover to evacuate the wounded and to withdraw. Courageously refusing to abandon four more wounded men who were lying along the trail, one-by-one he brought them back to safety. As he was carrying the last man in his arms he was struck by a heavy burst of automatic fire and was killed. By his persistent and daring self-sacrifice and on behalf of his comrades, SSG Endl made possible the successful evacuation of all but one man, and enabled the two platoons to withdraw with their wounded and to reorganize with the rest of the company.

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SGT Roy Woodroe Harmon, 28, USA (1916–1944)

Company C, 362nd Infantry Regiment, 91st Infantry Division
Casaglia, Italy
July 12, 1944
Presented October 2, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to SGT Roy W. Harmon (ASN: 39688132), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty on July 12, 1944, while serving with Company C, 362nd Infantry Regiment, 91st Infantry Division, in action at Casaglia, Italy.

SGT Harmon was an acting squad leader when heavy machinegun fire from enemy positions, well dug in on commanding ground and camouflaged by haystacks, stopped his company’s advance and pinned down one platoon where it was exposed to almost certain annihilation. Ordered to rescue the beleaguered platoon by neutralizing the German automatic fire, he led his squad forward along a draw to the right of the trapped unit against three key positions which poured murderous fire into his helpless comrades. When within range, his squad fired tracer bullets in an attempt to set fire to the three haystacks which were strung out in a loose line directly to the front, 75, 150, and 250 yards away. Realizing that this attack was ineffective, SGT Harmon ordered his squad to hold their position and voluntarily began a one-man assault. Carrying white phosphorus grenades and a submachine gun, he skillfully took advantage of what little cover the terrain afforded and crept to within 25 yards of the first position. He set the haystack afire with a grenade, and when two of the enemy attempted to flee from the inferno, he killed them with his submachine gun. Crawling toward the second machine-gun emplacement, he attracted fire and was wounded; but he continued to advance and destroyed the position with hand grenades, killing the occupants. He then attacked the third machine gun, running to a small knoll, then crawling over ground which offered no concealment or cover. About halfway to his objective, he was again wounded. But he struggled ahead until within 20 yards of the machinegun nest, where he raised himself to his knees to throw a grenade. He was knocked down by direct enemy fire. With a final, magnificent effort, he again arose, hurled the grenade and fell dead, riddled by bullets. His missile fired the third position, destroying it. SGT Harmon’s extraordinary heroism, gallantry, and self-sacrifice saved a platoon from being wiped out, and made it possible for his company to advance against powerful enemy resistance.

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SSG Kazuo Otani, 26, USA (1918–1944)

Company G, 2nd Battalion, 442 RCT – attached to the 34th Infantry Division
Near Pieve di Santa Luce, Italy
July 15, 1944
Presented June 21, 2000
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to SSG Kazuo Otani (ASN: 39089432), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on July 15, 1944, near Pieve di Santa Luce, Italy.

Advancing to attack a hill objective, SSG Otani’s platoon became pinned down in a wheat field by concentrated fire from enemy machine-gun and sniper positions. Realizing the danger confronting his platoon, SSG Otani left his cover and shot and killed a sniper who was firing with deadly effect upon the platoon. Followed by a steady stream of machine-gun bullets, SSG Otani then dashed across the open wheat field toward the foot of a cliff, and directed his men to crawl to the cover of the cliff. When the movement of the platoon drew heavy enemy fire, he dashed along the cliff toward the left flank, exposing himself to enemy fire. By attracting the attention of the enemy, he enabled the men closest to the cliff to reach cover. Organizing these men to guard against possible enemy counterattack, SSG Otani again made his way across the open field, shouting instructions to the stranded men while continuing to draw enemy fire. Reaching the rear of the platoon position, he took partial cover in a shallow ditch and directed covering fire for the men who had begun to move forward. At this point, one of his men became seriously wounded. Ordering his men to remain under cover, SSG Otani crawled to the wounded soldier who was lying on open ground in full view of the enemy. Dragging the wounded soldier to a shallow ditch, SSG Otani proceeded to render first aid treatment, but was mortally wounded by machine gun fire. SSG Otani’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

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2LT Dale Eldon Christensen, 24, USA (1920–1944)

Troop E, 112th Cavalry Regiment – attached to 32nd Infantry Division
Driniumor River, New Guinea
July 16-19, 1944
Presented May 10, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to 2LT Dale Eldon Christensen (ASN: 2036049), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Troop E, 112th Cavalry Regiment, along the Driniumor River, New Guinea, from July 16 to 19, 1944.

2LT Christensen repeatedly distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in the continuous heavy fighting which occurred in this area from July 16 to 19. On July 16, his platoon engaged in a savage firefight in which much damage was caused by one enemy machine gun effectively placed. 2LT Christensen ordered his men to remain under cover, crept forward under fire, and at a range of 15 yards put the gun out of action with hand grenades. Again, on 19 July, while attacking an enemy position strong in mortars and machine guns, his platoon was pinned to the ground by intense fire. Ordering his men to remain under cover, he crept forward alone to locate definitely the enemy automatic weapons and the best direction from which to attack. Although his rifle was struck by enemy fire and knocked from his hands he continued his reconnaissance, located five enemy machine guns, destroyed one with hand grenades, and rejoined his platoon. He then led his men to the point selected for launching the attack and, calling encouragement, led the charge. This assault was successful and the enemy was driven from the positions with a loss of four mortars and ten machineguns and leaving many dead on the field. On August 4, 1944, near Afua, Dutch New Guinea, 2LT Christensen was killed in action about two yards from his objective while leading his platoon in an attack on an enemy machine-gun position. 2LT Christensen’s leadership, intrepidity, and repeatedly demonstrated gallantry in action at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, exemplify the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.

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PFC Luther Skaggs Jr., 21, USMCR (1923–1976)

3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division
Asan-Adelup beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands
July 21-22, 1944
Presented June 15, 1945

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to PFC Luther Skaggs Jr., United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Squad Leader with a mortar section of a rifle company in the Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Asan-Adelup beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands, July 21-22, 1944.

When the section leader became a casualty under a heavy mortar barrage shortly after landing, PFC Skaggs promptly assumed command and led the section through intense fire for a distance of 200 yards to a position from which to deliver effective coverage of the assault on a strategic cliff. Valiantly defending this vital position against strong enemy counterattacks during the night, PFC Skaggs was critically wounded when a Japanese grenade lodged in his foxhole and exploded, shattering the lower part of one leg. Quick to act, he applied an improvised tourniquet and, while propped up in his foxhole, gallantly returned the enemy’s fire with his rifle and hand grenades for a period of eight hours, later crawling unassisted to the rear to continue the fight until the Japanese had been annihilated. Uncomplaining and calm throughout this critical period, PFC Skaggs served as a heroic example of courage and fortitude to other wounded men and, by his courageous leadership and inspiring devotion to duty, upheld the high traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

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PVT Donald Ronald Lobaugh, 19, USA (1925–1944)

127th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division
Near Afua, Dutch New Guinea
July 22, 1944
Presented April 17, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to PVT Donald Ronald Lobaugh, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with 127th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division, in action near Afua, New Guinea, on July 22, 1944.

While PVT Lobaugh’s company was withdrawing from its position on July 21, the enemy attacked and cut off approximately one platoon of our troops. The platoon immediately occupied, organized, and defended a position, which it held throughout the night. Early on July 22, an attempt was made to effect its withdrawal, but during the preparation therefore, the enemy emplaced a machine gun, protected by the fire of rifles and automatic weapons, which blocked the only route over which the platoon could move. Knowing that it was the key to the enemy position, PVT Lobaugh volunteered to attempt to destroy this weapon, even though in order to reach it he would be forced to work his way about 30 yards over ground devoid of cover. When partway across this open space he threw a hand grenade, but exposed himself in the act and was wounded. Heedless of his wound, he boldly rushed the emplacement, firing as he advanced. The enemy concentrated their fire on him, and he was struck repeatedly, but he continued his attack and killed two more before he was himself slain. PVT Lobaugh’s heroic actions inspired his comrades to press the attack, and to drive the enemy from the position with heavy losses. His fighting determination and intrepidity in battle exemplify the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.

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PFC Leonard Foster Mason, 24, USMC (1920–1944)

2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division
Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands
July 22, 1944
Presented late 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to PFC Leonard Foster Mason (MCSN: 384542), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as an automatic rifleman serving with the Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands on July 22, 1944.

Suddenly taken under fire by two enemy machine guns not more than 15 yards away while clearing out hostile positions holding up the advance of his platoon through a narrow gully, PFC Mason, alone and entirely on his own initiative, climbed out of the gully and moved parallel to it toward the rear of the enemy position. Although fired upon immediately by hostile riflemen from a higher position and wounded repeatedly in the arm and shoulder, PFC Mason grimly pressed forward and had just reached his objective when hit again by a burst of enemy machinegun fire, causing a critical wound to which he later succumbed. With valiant disregard for his own peril, he persevered, clearing out the hostile position, killing five Japanese, wounding another and then rejoining his platoon to report the results of his action before consenting to be evacuated. His exceptionally heroic act in the face of almost certain death enabled his platoon to accomplish its mission and reflects the highest credit upon PFC Mason and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

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18

2LT George W. G. Boyce Jr., 28, USA (1916–1944)

Troop A, 112th Cavalry Regiment – attached to 32nd Infantry Division
Near Afua, Dutch New Guinea
July 23, 1944
Presented April 7, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to 2LT George W. G. Boyce Jr. (ASN: 2036403), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty near Afua, New Guinea, on July 23, 1944, while serving with Troop A, 112th Cavalry Regimental Combat Team.

2LT Boyce’s troop, having been ordered to the relief of another unit surrounded by superior enemy forces, moved out, and upon gaining contact with the enemy, the two leading platoons deployed and built up a firing line. 2LT Boyce was ordered to attack with his platoon and make the main effort on the right of the troop. He launched his attack but after a short advance encountered such intense rifle, machine-gun, and mortar fire that the forward movement of his platoon was temporarily halted. A shallow depression offered a route of advance and he worked his squad up this avenue of approach in order to close with the enemy. He was promptly met by a volley of hand grenades, one falling between himself and the men immediately following. Realizing at once that the explosion would kill or wound several of his men, he promptly threw himself upon the grenade and smothered the blast with his own body. By thus deliberately sacrificing his life to save those of his men, this officer exemplified the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.

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19

SGT Ray E. Eubanks, 22, USA (1922–1944)

Company D, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment
Noemfoor, Dutch New Guinea
July 23, 1944
Presented March 29, 1945
Posthumous

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to SGT Ray E. Eubanks, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company D, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment in action at Noemfoor Island, Dutch New Guinea, July 23, 1944.

While moving to the relief of a platoon isolated by the enemy, his company encountered a strong enemy position supported by machine-gun, rifle, and mortar fire. SGT Eubanks was ordered to make an attack with one squad to neutralize the enemy by fire in order to assist the advance of his company. He maneuvered his squad to within 30 yards of the enemy where heavy fire checked his advance. Directing his men to maintain their fire, he and two scouts worked their way forward up a shallow depression to within 25 yards of the enemy. Directing the scouts to remain in place, SGT Eubanks armed himself with an automatic rifle and worked himself forward over terrain swept by intense fire to within 15 yards of the enemy position when he opened fire with telling effect. The enemy, having located his position, concentrated their fire with the result that he was wounded and a bullet rendered his rifle useless. In spite of his painful wounds he immediately charged the enemy and using his weapon as a club killed four of the enemy before he was himself again hit and killed. SGT Eubanks’ heroic action, courage, and example in leadership so inspired his men that their advance was successful. They killed 45 of the enemy and drove the remainder from the position, thus effecting the relief of our beleaguered troops.

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Capt Louis Hugh Wilson, 24, USMC (1920–2005)

Company F, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division
Fonte Hill, Guam, Mariana Islands
July 25-26, 1944
Presented October 5, 1945

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Capt Louis Hugh Wilson Jr., United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of Company F, attached to the Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Fonte Hill, Guam, July 25-26, 1944.

Ordered to take that portion of the hill within his zone of action, Capt Wilson initiated his attack in midafternoon, pushed up the rugged, open terrain against terrific machine-gun and rifle fire for 300 yards and successfully captured the objective. Promptly assuming command of other disorganized units and motorized equipment in addition to his own company and one reinforcing platoon, he organized his night defenses in the face of continuous hostile fire and, although wounded three times during this five-hour period, completed his disposition of men and guns before retiring to the company command post for medical attention. Shortly thereafter, when the enemy launched the first of a series of savage counterattacks lasting all night, he voluntarily rejoined his besieged units and repeatedly exposed himself to the merciless hail of shrapnel and bullets, dashing 50 yards into the open on one occasion to rescue a wounded Marine lying helpless beyond the frontlines. Fighting fiercely in hand-to-hand encounters, he led his men in furiously waged battle for approximately ten hours, tenaciously holding his line and repelling the fanatically renewed counterthrusts until he succeeded in crushing the last efforts of the hard-pressed Japanese early the following morning. Then organizing a 17-man patrol, he immediately advanced upon a strategic slope essential to the security of his position and, boldly defying intense mortar, machine-gun, and rifle fire which struck down 13 of his men, drove relentlessly forward with the remnants of his patrol to seize the vital ground. By his indomitable leadership, daring combat tactics, and valor in the face of overwhelming odds, Capt Wilson succeeded in capturing and holding the strategic high ground in his regimental sector, thereby contributing essentially to the success of his regimental mission and to the annihilation of 350 Japanese troops. His inspiring conduct throughout the critical periods of this decisive action sustains and enhances the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

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