This is a list of Medal of Honor recipients for World War II. The Medal of Honor was created during the American Civil War and is the highest military decoration presented by the United States government to a member of its armed forces. The recipient must have distinguished themselves at the risk of their own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an "enemy of the United States" or an "opposing foreign force". Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented posthumously.[1]
The United States was drawn into World War II on December 8, 1941, a day after the Axis-member Japan launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Honolulu that killed almost 2,500 people in what was considered the biggest peacetime loss on American soil inflicted by foreign people at that time.
For actions during World War II, 472 United States military personnel received the Medal of Honor.[3] Seventeen of these were Japanese-Americans fighting in both Europe and the Pacific, many of which were upgraded from Distinguished Service Crosses during the Clinton administration. Additionally, Douglas Albert Munro was the only serviceman from the United States Coast Guard in United States military history to receive the Medal for his actions during the war.
The earliest action for which a U.S. serviceman earned a World War II Medal of Honor was the attack on Pearl Harbor, for which 17 U.S. servicemen were awarded a Medal, although they did so "while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force" rather than "enemy" since the United States was neutral during the events of December 7, 1941. The last action to earn a contemporaneous Medal of Honor prior to the August 15, 1945, end of hostilities in World War II, were those of Melvin Mayfield, on July 29, 1945 – though several honorees may have been cited for their Medal after Mayfield's recognition on May 31, 1946. Additionally, seven African-American and twenty-two Asian-American soldiers who had received the Distinguished Service Cross during the war were awarded the Medal of Honor in 1997 and 2000 – most of them posthumously – after two studies determined that racial discrimination had caused them to be overlooked at the time.[4]
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Stanley Bender Staff Sergeant near La Londe les maures, France August 17, 1944 He had sparked and led the assault company in an attack which overwhelmed the enemy, destroying a roadblock, taking a town, seizing intact 3 bridges over the Maravenne River, and capturing commanding terrain which dominated the area.—
George Benjamin Jr. † Private First Class Leyte, Philippines December 21, 1944 He was severely wounded while leading an assault against a strongly defended Japanese position on the island of Leyte. After being evacuated to an aid station, he conveyed valuable information regarding the disposition of the Japanese emplacement to his superiors.—
Edward A. Bennett Corporal Heckhuscheid, Germany February 1, 1945 The fearless initiative, stalwart combat ability, and outstanding gallantry of Cpl. Bennett eliminated the enemy fire which was decimating his company's ranks and made it possible for the Americans to sweep all resistance from the town. Mervyn S. Bennion † Navy Captain West Virginia, Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941 While mortally wounded, he remained in command of his ship. For conspicuous devotion to duty, extraordinary courage, and complete disregard of his own life, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. Charles J. Berry † Marine Corps Corporal Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 3, 1945 He landed on Iwo Jima on D-Day, February 19, 1945, and was killed in action on March 3, 1945, during the action which earned him the Medal of Honor. Vito R. Bertoldo Army Master Sergeant Hatten, France January 9, 1945 – January 10, 1945 In Hatten, France, he manned a machine gun in defense of a command post being attacked by a numerically superior German force. When evacuation became necessary, he voluntarily stayed behind to cover the withdrawal. The next morning he moved to another command post, and again defended it against a continued assault by strong German forces and voluntarily covered the withdrawal of friendly forces when the post was abandoned. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor one year later, on January 10, 1946. Arthur O. Beyer Corporal near Arloncourt, Belgium January 15, 1945 Near Arloncourt, Belgium, he used hand grenades and his carbine to single-handedly destroy two German machine gun positions before working his way through a honey-combed series of enemy foxholes—killing and capturing German soldiers as he went. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry Truman seven months later, on August 30, 1945. Willibald C. Bianchi † First Lieutenant near Bagac, Bataan Province, Philippines February 3, 1942 After the action near Bagac in the Bataan Province, Bianchi was among the troops captured by the Japanese at the fall of Bataan, on April 9, 1942. He was part of the Bataan "Death March," and was imprisoned in several Japanese prisoner of war camps, enduring horrible conditions. He was known for his compassion and efforts to better the lot of his fellow prisoners by bartering with their captors for extra food and medicine. On January 9, 1945, while imprisoned in an unmarked Japanese prison ship, Bianchi was killed instantly when an American plane, unaware that the ship contained American prisoners, dropped a 1,000-pound bomb in the cargo hold.—
Melvin E. Biddle Private First Class near Soy, Belgium December 23, 1944 – December 24, 1944 When presenting the medal to Biddle, Truman whispered "People don't believe me when I tell them that I'd rather have one of these than be President." Biddle was decorated with 17 other soldiers that served in the Eastern Theater of Operations. Elmer C. Bigelow † Navy Watertender First Class USS Fletcher, off Corregidor Island, Philippines February 14, 1945 While assisting minesweeping operations prior to landings on Manila Bay's Corregidor Island, Fletcher was hit by an enemy shell penetrated the No. 1 gun magazine, igniting several powder cases. Bigelow 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, Bigelow 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, he succeeded in quickly extinguishing the fires and in cooling the cases and bulkheads, thereby preventing further damage to the ship. However Bigelow was badly injured and succumbed to his injuries the following day. Arnold L. Bjorklund Army First Lieutenant near Altavilla, Italy September 13, 1943 Near Altavilla, Italy, he single-handedly attacked and destroyed two German machine gun emplacements and a mortar position.—
Orville E. Bloch First Lieutenant near Firenzuola, Italy September 22, 1944 Near Firenzuola, Italy, he led three soldiers in an attack on enemy positions which resulted in the capture of nineteen prisoners and the silencing of five machine gun nests. Paul L. Bolden Staff Sergeant Petit-Coo, Belgium December 23, 1944 While his comrade provided covering fire from across the street, Bolden tossed grenades through a window, rushed to the door, and began firing. Wounded by the greatly superior number of German soldiers inside, he retreated from the house. Realizing that the Germans would not surrender, he returned to the house despite his serious wounds and killed the remaining soldiers. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor eight months later, on August 30, 1945. Cecil H. Bolton First Lieutenant Mark River, Holland November 2, 1944 After being severely wounded in the legs and rendered unconsciousness from a German shell, he advanced voluntarily towards several enemy emplacements and led his team through intense enemy fire, and eliminated several machine gunners and an 88-mm. artillery piece. Richard I. Bong Air Forces Major over Borneo and Leyte October 10, 1944 – November 15, 1944 Fighter pilot in the Pacific theater shot down at least 40 Japanese aircraft, making him America's top ace. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. † Marine Corps First Lieutenant Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands November 20, 1943 – November 22, 1943 During a counterattack at the far end of Betio Pier, he directed and reorganized his pioneer party after suffering heavy bombardment, and directed the blowing of several hostile installations. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. then led his party into a renewed assault, effectively taking over a heavily fortified enemy emplacement, resulting in, approximately, 150 hostile troops being killed.—
Robert D. Booker † Army Private near Fondouk, Tunisia April 9, 1943 While engaged in action against the enemy, he ran 200 yards of open ground with a machine gun and a box of ammunition, while under heavy fire from hostile machine gunners, mortar and artillery. William J. Bordelon † Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands November 20, 1943 Surviving a counterattack and sustaining heavy fire, William J. Bordelon attacked several enemy emplacements with demolitions and disregarded his own serious condition in order to rescue and aid two of his men.—
George W. G. Boyce Jr. † Army Second Lieutenant near Afua, New Guinea July 23, 1944 After being ambushed by superior enemy forces, he was planning a tactical maneuver with his platoon. During this planning, a hand grenade fell in between him and his men, and he promptly threw himself upon the grenade to save his men. Pappy Boyington Marine Corps Major Central Solomons area September 12, 1943 – January 3, 1944 Fighter pilot with 26 victories. Herschel F. Briles Army Staff Sergeant near Scherpenseel, Germany November 20, 1944 With a comrade at his side, Herschel left his vehicle and rescued 2 critically wounded soldiers from a burning destroyer and extinguished the fire, which had been hit by an artillery shell near Scherpenseel, Germany, on November 20, 1944. The next morning, he forced 55 Germans to surrender, armed with only a machine gun, allowing fellow Americans to pass through the junction the Nazis occupied. Later that day, another destroyer was hit by a concealed enemy tank, where he again rescued 2 allies from the wreckage with the help of a fellow soldier.—
Maurice L. Britt First Lieutenant North of Mignano, Italy November 10, 1943 Played football for the Detroit Lions, later Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas. Leonard C. Brostrom † Private First Class near Dagami, Leyte, Philippines October 28, 1944 During an ambush, his platoon sustained heavy fire from well-camouflaged emplacements which resulted in severe casualties. After noticing a weak point in the enemy fortification, Leonard C. Brostrom charged without hesitation to flush out the enemies. During this, he was a prime target and was killed in action, but his company managed to reorganize and assault the enemy.—
Bobbie E. Brown Captain Crucifix Hill, Aachen, Germany October 8, 1944 John D. Bulkeley Navy Lieutenant Commander Philippine waters December 7, 1941 – April 10, 1942—
Frank Burke Army First Lieutenant Nuremberg, Germany April 17, 1945 Also known as Francis X. Burke.—
Elmer J. Burr † First Sergeant Buna, New Guinea December 24, 1942 For smothering a grenade with his body, sacrificing himself to save others around him. Herbert H. Burr Staff Sergeant near Dorrmoschel, Germany March 19, 1945 He was awarded the Medal of Honor for not bailing on his mission and single-handedly destroying an 88mm anti-tank turret by driving a damaged tank over top of the gun. He also continued to destroy a German truck and directed medics to his injured men on foot while running through sniper fire. James M. Burt Captain near Wurselen, Germany October 13, 1944 Commanded an infantry-tank attack while exposed to enemy fire, as well as ran through 75 yards through heavy fire to assist the infantry battalion commander who was seriously wounded. Richard E. Bush Marine Corps Corporal Mount Yaedake, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 16, 1945 Bush was a Squad Leader serving with the First Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in action against Japanese forces during the final assault against Mt. Yaetake on Okinawa. He led his troops up the rocky precipice, over the ridge and drove out defending Japanese troops. He fought relentlessly in the forefront of the attack until being evacuated due to his wounds. Although prostrate under medical treatment when a Japanese grenade landed in the midst of his group, he pulled it into his body, taking the full force of the blast and saving the lives of his fellow marines. He was one of the four surviving marines who shielded grenades with their bodies during World War II. Robert E. Bush Navy Hospital Apprentice First class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 2, 1945 Hospital Corpsman serving with Marines. John E. Butts † Army Second Lieutenant Normandy, France June 14, 1944, June 16, 1944, and June 23, 1944 Butts served with the U.S. Army, E Company, 60th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry Division during the invasion of France in 1944. He was severely wounded on three occasions and continued leading his men until June 23 when he was killed. He was 21 years of age. This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Alvin P. Carey † Staff Sergeant near Plougastel, Brittany, France August 23, 1944 Mortally wounded while single-handedly attacking an enemy pillbox—
Charles F. Carey Jr. † Technical Sergeant Rimling, France January 8, 1945 – January 9, 1945 Chris Carr Sergeant near Guignola, Italy October 1, 1944 – October 2, 1944 Horace S. Carswell Jr. † Air Forces Major over the South China Sea October 26, 1944 Assigned to the 14th USAAF in China, Carswell was flying a B-24 Liberator on the night of October 26, 1944, on a single-aircraft mission against a Japanese convoy in the South China Sea. He elected to make a second low-level run over a thoroughly alerted convoy and scored two direct hits on a large tanker. His co-pilot was wounded, and his aircraft had two engines knocked out, a third damaged, the hydraulic system damaged, and a fuel tank punctured. He managed to gain enough altitude to reach land, where he ordered the crew to bail out. Eight did, but the bombardier's parachute was too badly damaged to use. Instead of bailing out, Carswell stayed with the bombardier and the wounded co-pilot, and attempted a crash landing. The badly damaged aircraft crashed against a mountain, and all three aboard were killed. Edward A. Carter Jr. Army Staff Sergeant near Speyer, Germany March 23, 1945 One of seven African-American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Carter served with an armored infantry unit of the Seventh Army Infantry Company Number 1 (Provisional), a unit manned by volunteers and used to support depleted divisions following the Battle of the Bulge. On March 23, 1945, Carter engaged the enemy when the tank he was riding on was hit by bazooka fire. Forced to dismount, he led three soldiers across an open field. In the process, two of the men were killed and the other seriously wounded. Carter continued alone and was wounded five times before being forced to take cover. Eight German soldiers tried to capture him, but he killed six of them and captured the remaining two as prisoners.—
Anthony Casamento Marine Corps Corporal Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands November 1, 1942 When all members of his machine gun squad were killed or severely wounded, he continued to man a machine gun, single-handedly holding off a large Japanese force despite multiple wounds himself. He was belatedly awarded the Medal of Honor in 1980. Frederick W. Castle † Air Forces Brigadier General Germany December 24, 1944 Justice M. Chambers Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 – February 22, 1945 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 Ralph Cheli † Air Forces Major near Wewak, New Guinea August 18, 1943—
Ernest Childers Army Second Lieutenant Oliveto, Italy September 22, 1943 Clyde L. Choate Staff Sergeant near Bruyeres, France October 25, 1944 Dale E. Christensen † Second Lieutenant Driniumor River, New Guinea July 16, 1944 – July 19, 1944Herbert F. Christian † Private near Valmontone, Italy June 2, 1944 – June 3, 1944For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty along the Driniumor River, New Guinea, from 16 – July 19, 1944. 2d Lt. 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 16 – July 19,. On July 16, his platoon engaged in a savage fire fight in which much damage was caused by 1 enemy machine gun effectively placed. 2d Lt. 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 July 19, 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 5 enemy machine guns, destroyed 1 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 4 mortars and 10 machine guns and leaving many dead on the field. On August 4, 1944, near Afua, Dutch New Guinea, 2d Lt. Christensen was killed in action about 2 yards from his objective while leading his platoon in an attack on an enemy machine gun position. 2d Lt. 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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Joseph J. Cicchetti † Private First Class South Manila, Luzon, Philippines February 9, 1945—
Francis J. Clark Technical Sergeant near Kalborn, Luxembourg and near Sevenig, Germany September 12, 1944 and September 17, 1944 Mike Colalillo Private First Class near Untergriesheim, Germany April 7, 1945 Darrell S. Cole † Marine Corps Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 Namesake of USS Cole (DDG-67). Robert G. Cole † Army Lieutenant Colonel near Carentan, France June 11, 1944 For leading a charge across a field swept by German machine guns and artillery.—
Garlin Murl Conner First Lieutenant Houssen, France January 24, 1945 For directing artillery fire for three hours against a German advance that came so close he directed fire on his own position.—
James P. Connor Sergeant Cape Cavalaire, southern France August 15, 1944—
Raymond H. Cooley Staff Sergeant near Lumboy, Luzon, Philippines February 24, 1945 Charles H. Coolidge Technical Sergeant East of Belmont sur Buttant, France October 24, 1944 – October 27, 1944Henry A. Courtney Jr. † Marine Corps Major Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 14, 1945 – May 15, 1945 For leading his battalion in a successful night attack up a fiercely defended hill, personally killing many Japanese before he himself was killed. Richard E. Cowan † Army Private First Class near Krinkelter Wald, Belgium December 17, 1944 Clarence B. Craft Private First Class Hen Hill, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 31, 1945 Robert Craig † Second Lieutenant near Favoratta, Sicily July 11, 1943 Single-handedly located and destroyed an Italian machine gun nest; then, when encountering superior enemy forces, ultimately chose to sacrifice himself by laying down covering fire for his entire platoon to retreat to safety. Morris E. Crain † Technical Sergeant Haguenau, France March 13, 1945 When a house defended by some of his men came under intense attack from German soldiers and a tank, he ordered the men to withdraw while he held the position alone. He was killed when the house was destroyed by German fire. Demas T. Craw † Air Forces Colonel near Port Lyautey, French Morocco November 8, 1942 William J. Crawford Army Private near Altavilla, Italy September 13, 1943 Listed as MIA, Crawford's MoH was originally presented posthumously to Crawford's father. Crawford was later discovered to be a PoW. President Reagan re-presented Crawford's MoH to him at the U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1984 graduation.Leading a section of heavy machine guns supported by 1 platoon of Company K, he took a position near Hill 623, east of Belmont sur Buttant, France, on October 24, 1944, with the mission of covering the right flank of the 3d Battalion and supporting its action. T/Sgt. Coolidge went forward with a Sergeant of Company K to reconnoiter positions for coordinating the fires of the light and heavy machine guns. They ran into an enemy force in the woods estimated to be an infantry company. T/Sgt. Coolidge, attempting to bluff the Germans by a show of assurance and boldness called upon them to surrender, whereupon the enemy opened fire. With his carbine, T/Sgt. Coolidge wounded 2 of them. There being no officer present with the force, T/Sgt. Coolidge at once assumed command. Many of the men were replacements recently arrived; this was their first experience under fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge, unmindful of the enemy fire delivered at close range, walked along the position, calming and encouraging his men and directing their fire. The attack was thrown back. Through 25 and October 26, the enemy launched repeated attacks against the position of this combat group but each was repulsed due to T/Sgt. Coolidge's able leadership. On October 27, German infantry, supported by 2 tanks, made a determined attack on the position. The area was swept by enemy small arms, machine gun, and tank fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge armed himself with a bazooka and advanced to within 25 yards of the tanks. His bazooka failed to function and he threw it aside. Securing all the hand grenades he could carry, he crawled forward and inflicted heavy casualties on the advancing enemy. Finally it became apparent that the enemy, in greatly superior force, supported by tanks, would overrun the position. T/Sgt. Coolidge, displaying great coolness and courage, directed and conducted an orderly withdrawal, being himself the last to leave the position. As a result of T/Sgt. Coolidge's heroic and superior leadership, the mission of this combat group was accomplished throughout 4 days of continuous fighting against numerically superior enemy troops in rain and cold and amid dense woods.
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John R. Crews Staff Sergeant near Lobenbacherhof, Germany April 8, 1945 John P. Cromwell † Navy Captain USS Sculpin, off Truk Island November 19, 1943 Stayed aboard a sinking submarine to prevent military secrets he possessed from falling into enemy hands. Francis S. Currey Army Sergeant Malmedy, Belgium December 21, 1944 Rescued several men and women while destroying a building with enemy soldiers. This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Michael J. Daly First Lieutenant Nuremberg, Germany April 18, 1945 Anthony P. Damato † Marine Corps Corporal Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands February 19, 1944 – February 20, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body Albert L. David Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade off French West Africa June 4, 1944 For leading a boarding party that successfully captured the German submarine U-505. Rudolph B. Davila Army Staff Sergeant near Artena, Italy May 28, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time.—
Charles W. Davis Captain Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands January 12, 1943 George F. Davis † Navy Commander USS Walke, Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippines January 6, 1945 James L. Day Marine Corps Corporal Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 14, 1945 – May 17, 1945 After most of his Marines were wounded or killed, he manned a machine gun and killed more than 100 enemy soldiers despite multiple wounds over a period of several days. He was belatedly awarded the Medal of Honor in 1998. Samuel D. Dealey † Navy Commander USS Harder, near Philippines Jun 6, 1944 – Jun 10, 1944 Jefferson J. DeBlanc Marine Corps Captain off Kolombangara Island, New Georgia Group, Solomon Islands January 31, 1943 For downing five Japanese aircraft in a single action—
Arthur F. DeFranzo † Army Staff Sergeant near Vaubadon, France June 10, 1944 Charles N. DeGlopper † Private First Class Merderet River at la Fiere, France June 9, 1944—
Emile Deleau Jr. † Sergeant Oberhoffen, France February 1, 1945 – February 2, 1945 Ernest H. Dervishian Technical Sergeant near Cisterna, Italy May 23, 1944—
James H. Diamond † Private First Class Mintal, Mindanao, Philippines May 8, 1945 – May 14, 1945—
Robert H. Dietz † Staff Sergeant Kirchain, Germany March 29, 1945 Jimmy Doolittle Air Forces Lieutenant Colonel over Japan April 18, 1942 For leading the Doolittle Raid over the Japanese mainland. Desmond T. Doss Army Private First Class near Urasoe Mura, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 29, 1945 – May 21, 1945 The first conscientious objector to receive a Medal of Honor, for saving many lives while acting as a medic. During the Battle of Okinawa, Pfc. Doss single-handedly entered enemy line of fire to retrieve approximately 75 casualties, carrying them one-by-one down a 400-foot escarpment. He later, on separate occasions, rescued a man 200 yards on the same escarpment, treated 4 men within 8 yards of an enemy's cave, treated and administered plasma to an injured artillery officer while continually under fire, and 25 feet from an enemy position, treated and carried another soldier 100 feet to safety. Finally, while he was giving aid to injured soldiers under fire, he was himself injured in the legs by a grenade. He tended his own wounds while he waited for his fellow soldiers to bring a litter. When they arrived, he saw another soldier injured worse and directed the bearers to rescue him first. While waiting for their return, he was shot in the arm. He strapped a gun stock to his arm as splint and crawled the 300 yards of rough terrain to the aid station. He also saved injured Japanese soldiers.—
Jesse R. Drowley Staff Sergeant Bougainville, Solomon Islands January 30, 1944 Russell E. Dunham Technical Sergeant near Kayserberg, France January 8, 1945 Robert H. Dunlap Marine Corps Captain Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 20, 1945 – February 21, 1945 Risked his life to gather intelligence about and direct fire on enemy gun positions—
John W. Dutko † Army Private First Class near Ponte Rotto, Italy May 23, 1944 Aquilla J. Dyess † Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands February 1, 1944 – February 2, 1944 For leading his battalion in pushing the Japanese out of their positions before he was killed This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Gerald L. Endl † Army Staff Sergeant near Anamo, New Guinea July 11, 1944 For rescuing 6 wounded soldiers single handedly and was fatally wounded while evacuating the 7th Harold G. Epperson † Marine Corps Private First Class Saipan, Mariana Islands June 25, 1944 For repelling a determined Japanese assault before sacrificing his life by smothering a grenade with his body Henry E. Erwin Air Forces Staff Sergeant Koriyama, Japan April 12, 1945 For locating and ejecting a burning phosphorus smoke grenade from a B-29 cockpit during a raid on Koriyama, Japan. The burns nearly killed him and left him badly disfigured. Ray E. Eubanks † Army Sergeant Noemfoor Island, Dutch New Guinea July 23, 1944 Ernest E. Evans † Navy Commander USS Johnston, off Samar October 25, 1944 For heroic actions as captain of the destroyer U.S.S. Johnston during the Battle Off Samar, 25 October 1944. Upon sighting a massive Japanese force of Battleships and Heavy Cruisers transiting to attack General Douglas MacArthur's 200,000 encamped troops at Red Beach, Leyte, Philippines, Commander Evans broke formation and charged his heavily outmatched destroyer directly toward the enemy force, completing a successful torpedo attack that sank one of the Heavy Cruisers and that threw the force into disarray. His courageous actions inspired similar attacks from other destroyers in the task unit, prompting the task unit commander, Rear Admiral Clifton Sprague, to order all destroyers in the task unit to break formation and attack. When enemy shellfire obliterated the bridge of his ship, Commander Evans shifted his command to the fantail, steering the ship by giving orders through an open hatch to men turning the rudder by hand. Despite suffering the severe mutilation of his left hand early in the attack and being covered in blood from his wounds, he continued to outmaneuver and outgun the opposing force in what amounted to almost three hours of combat. The attacking Japanese force was ultimately driven into retreat, preventing a deadly assault on the Army landing forces at Leyte. His ship eventually sank from the battle damage and the remaining survivors endured over 70 hours in shark-infested waters. Commander Evans was not found among the survivors. Forrest E. Everhart Army Technical Sergeant near Kerling, France November 12, 1944 This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Almond E. Fisher Army Second Lieutenant near Grammont, France September 12, 1944 – September 13, 1944 Francis C. Flaherty † Navy Ensign Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 During the evacuation of USS Oklahoma, he remained in a turret, holding a flashlight so the remainder of the turret crew could see to escape, thereby sacrificing his own life. Richard E. Fleming † Marine Corps Captain Midway Atoll June 4, 1942 – June 5, 1942 For taking command after his squadron commander was shot down, leading several attacks on Japanese ships before he himself was shot down. Eugene B. Fluckey Navy Commander USS Barb, along east coast of China December 19, 1944 – February 15, 1945 Joseph J. Foss Marine Corps Captain over Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands October 9, 1942 – November 19, 1942 and January 1943 For shooting down 26 aircraft as leader of the Flying Circus. Later became 20th Governor of South Dakota. First commissioner of the American Football League. William A. Foster † Marine Corps Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 2, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body William G. Fournier † Army Sergeant Mount Austen, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands January 10, 1943—
Thomas W. Fowler † Second Lieutenant near Carano, Italy May 23, 1944 John R. Fox † First Lieutenant near Sommocolonia, Italy December 26, 1944 One of seven African-American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. A forward observer with the 366th Infantry Regiment of the segregated 92nd Infantry Division, Fox deliberately ordered his own artillery to fire on top of his position to repel a German advance. When Fox was told that he would not survive the barrage, he replied, "Fire it!" His action permitted U.S. forces - who had been forced to withdraw - to organize a counterattack and regain control of the village.—
Elmer E. Fryar † Private Leyte, Philippines December 8, 1944 Leonard A. Funk Jr. First Sergeant Holzheim [de], Belgium January 29, 1945 Samuel G. Fuqua Navy Lieutenant Commander Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Incapacitated in the initial bombing of USS Arizona, he recovered to direct the fighting of the fires and the rescue of wounded and injured personnel. He stayed on deck through the continuous bombing and strafing, leading in a calm and cool manner that resulted in the saving of many lives. This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Robert E. Gerstung Army Technical Sergeant Siegfried Line near Berg, Germany December 19, 1944—
Eric G. Gibson † Technician 5th Grade near Isola Bella, Italy January 28, 1944 Howard W. Gilmore † Navy Commander USS Growler, southwest Pacific January 10, 1943 – February 7, 1943 While wounded on the bridge and unable to get below in time, gave the order for the submarine to crash dive to avoid an imminent attack, sacrificing himself to save the ship and the crew. Harold Gonsalves † Marine Corps Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 15, 1945 While laying telephone lines for communication with the artillery battalion in Okinawa, he saved two other Marines after flinging himself atop of a Japanese grenade and taking the full brunt of the resulting explosion allowing the other two men to complete the mission. David M. Gonzales † Army Private First Class Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines April 25, 1945 During intense combat, his company was pinned down by enemy machine gun fire. Despite the grave danger, he went to the aid of his fellow soldiers who had been buried in a bomb explosion. Digging them out with his bare hands and a shovel, under continuous enemy fire, he managed to rescue three of the men before being mortally wounded. His selfless actions and sacrifice allowed his unit to continue their advance and contributed significantly to their mission's success. Nathan G. Gordon Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade Bismarck Sea February 15, 1944 Later Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas Donald J. Gott † Air Forces First Lieutenant Saarbrücken, Germany November 9, 1944 Piloted a B-17 aircraft on a bombing run on Saarbrücken. Even though his plane was severely damaged and set ablaze by anti-aircraft fire which wounded the engineer and the radio operator, Gott and co-pilot William E. Metzger Jr. successfully dropped their bombs on the target and flew the plane to friendly territory. After having their crew bail out except for the unconscious radio operator, Gott and Metzger attempted to crashland the plane to save their helpless comrade. The plane exploded, killing the three remaining crewmembers on board.—
William J. Grabiarz † Army Private First Class Manila, Luzon, Philippines February 23, 1945 For using his body to shield a wounded officer from hostile fire. Ross F. Gray † Marine Corps Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 21, 1945 Single-handedly overcame a strong enemy garrison and completely disarmed a large mine field before finally rejoining his unit.—
Stephen R. Gregg Army Technical Sergeant near Montelimar, France August 27, 1944—
Kenneth E. Gruennert † Sergeant near Buna, New Guinea December 24, 1942 Henry Gurke † Marine Corps Private First Class Bougainville, Solomon Islands November 9, 1943 Fell on a grenade that landed in his foxhole, saving the man with him This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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George J. Hall Staff Sergeant near Anzio, Italy May 23, 1944 Single-handedly captured two German machine gun positions and was severely wounded while attempting to take a third, resulting in him having to self-amputate his right leg.—
Lewis Hall † Technician 5th Grade Mount Austen, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands January 10, 1943 During a Japanese attack he refused an order to withdraw after many men in his unit had been killed or wounded and, with a fellow soldier, stayed behind to man a machine gun. William E. Hall Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade Coral Sea May 7, 1942 – May 8, 1942 Dive bombed a Japanese aircraft carrier, contributing greatly to its destruction. The next day, he attacked a superior number of Japanese planes and shot down three. Although his craft was damaged and he was seriously wounded in this attack, he managed to land safely. Sherwood H. Hallman † Army Staff Sergeant Brest, Brittany, France September 13, 1944 William D. Halyburton Jr. † Navy Pharmacist's Mate Second class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 10, 1945 Killed shielding a wounded Marine with his body while administering aid. Pierpont M. Hamilton Air Forces Major near Port Lyautey, French Morocco November 8, 1942 Owen F. P. Hammerberg † Navy Boatswain's mate Second class West Loch, Pearl Harbor February 17, 1945 Rescued two other divers trapped beneath a sunken LST before he himself became trapped and perished. Dale M. Hansen † Marine Corps Private Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 7, 1945 For destroying two hostile positions with a rocket launcher and hand grenades, killing 12 Japanese Robert M. Hanson † Marine Corps First Lieutenant Bougainville Island and New Britain Island November 1, 1943 and January 24, 1944 One of the top Marine aces, he shot down a total of 25 enemy aircraft before he himself was shot down and killed. He was also awarded the Navy Cross.—
Roy W. Harmon † Army Sergeant near Casaglia, Italy July 12, 1944 Harry R. Harr † Corporal near Maglamin, Mindanao, Philippines June 5, 1945 William G. Harrell Marine Corps Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 3, 1945 Risked his life to defend his position against a larger enemy force—
James L. Harris † Army Second Lieutenant Vagney, France October 7, 1944 Mikio Hasemoto † Private near Cerasuolo, Italy November 29, 1943 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Joe R. Hastings † Private First Class Drabenderhohe, Germany April 12, 1945 Louis J. Hauge Jr. † Marine Corps Corporal Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 14, 1945 For single-handedly charging and knocking out two enemy machine gun positions before he was killed.—
John D. Hawk Army Sergeant near Chambois, France August 20, 1944 William D. Hawkins † Marine Corps First Lieutenant Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands November 20, 1943 – November 21, 1943 For leading attacks on multiple enemy positions, knocking five out before he was badly wounded, but persisting in knocking out another three before he was killed. Lloyd C. Hawks Army Private First Class near Carano, Italy January 30, 1944 Joe Hayashi † Private near Tendola, Italy April 20, 1945 and April 22, 1945 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Shizuya Hayashi Private near Cerasuolo, Italy November 29, 1943 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time.—
Clinton M. Hedrick † Technical Sergeant near Lembeck, Germany March 27, 1945 – March 28, 1945 James R. Hendrix Private near Assenois, Belgium December 26, 1944 Robert T. Henry † Private Luchem, Germany December 3, 1944 Silvestre S. Herrera Private First Class near Mertzwiller, France March 15, 1945 Rufus G. Herring Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade as commanding officer aboard a landing craft, USS LCI (G) 449, Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 17, 1945 Maintained position in the firing line with his 20-mm guns in action in the face of sustained enemy fire and conned his crippled ship to safety Edwin J. Hill † Chief Boatswain Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 During the height of the strafing and bombing of USS Nevada, led his men of the linehandling details to the quays, cast off the lines and swam back to his ship. Back on board, while attempting to let go the anchors, was blown overboard and killed by the explosion of several bombs.—
Freeman V. Horner Army Staff Sergeant Wurselen, Germany November 16, 1944 On October 30, 1945, United States Army Officer Freeman V. Horner was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during World War II. During the second World War, Sergeant Freeman Horner and his company were stationed in Nazi Germany. On November 16, 1944, Sergeant Horner and his company were attacking Wurselen, Germany, and were experiencing heavy resistance. He ran into enemy lines thinking he was safe, and immediately had enemy firing at him. He was able to make it all the way over there and was able to destroy over 9 machine guns. He went on to live his life in Columbus, Georgia, with his wife, who cared for him until his death of a brain aneurysm. James H. Howard Air Forces Major over Oschersleben, Germany January 11, 1944 Only fighter pilot in the European Theater of Operations in World War II to be awarded the Medal of Honor Paul B. Huff Army Corporal near Carano, Italy February 8, 1944 February 8, 1944, near Carano, Italy, Huff led a reconnaissance patrol while under heavy fire from German forces. For his actions during the patrol, Huff received the Medal of Honor three months later, on May 26.He led a 6 man patrol into German grounds, and was found in an open fire with the enemy. Knowing the danger, he left his patrol and continued on by himself. He crawled over 75 yards to get to them. He was able to kill them while kneeling with his submachine gun. Before leaving the army, Huff reached the highest enlisted rank, command sergeant major, a position which carried the responsibilities of being the senior enlisted advisor to the commanding officer and a monitor for, and advocate of, the enlisted men in the command. He was survived by his wife, Betty Cunnyngham Huff. Paul Huff Parkway, a major thoroughfare in Cleveland, Tennessee, is named in his honor,as is the Paul B. Huff Army Reserve Center, located in Nashville. Lloyd Herbert Hughes † Air Forces Second Lieutenant Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943—
Johnnie D. Hutchins † Navy Seaman First class aboard a landing ship, USS LST 473, off Lae, New Guinea September 4, 1943 This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Willy F. James Jr. † Army Private First Class near Lippoldsberg, Germany April 7, 1945 One of seven African-American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. John L. Jerstad † Air Forces Major Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943 Elden H. Johnson † Army Private near Valmontone, Italy June 3, 1944 Leon W. Johnson Air Forces Colonel Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943 A United States Air Force general who was awarded the Medal of Honor for leading the attack on the Ploesti oil fields during World War II. Following the raid on Ploesti, one of the war's costliest aerial encounters for all concerned, Johnson was awarded the Medal of Honor.—
Leroy Johnson † Army Sergeant near Limon, Leyte, Philippines December 15, 1944 Oscar G. Johnson Private First Class near Scarperia, Italy September 16, 1944 – September 18, 1944—
William J. Johnston Private First Class Anzio, Italy[6] February 17, 1944 – February 19, 1944 Johnston was a machine gunner attached to the Third Platoon of his company and that platoon was the furthest advanced element in the Company's defenses. About eighty Germans advanced under the cover of an artillery barrage in the darkness and were within about 200 yards of the platoon's positions when they were discovered by Johnston who was at his gun. He manned his machine gun and the attack was halted. All during the day, without relief, he remained with his weapon and fired at every target that presented itself. One German worked up the draw so close to the position that the machine gun could not be brought to bear upon him. Johnston drew his pistol and killed him. As the day wore on, it became evident that if the Company was to escape it would have to begin its movement. Not everyone could get out. Johnson volunteered to stay. Afterwards an artillery shell made what almost amounted to a direct hit on Johnston's position and shell fragments penetrated into the left portion of his chest. An examination indicated that he was dying. The rapid advance of large numbers of the Germans prevented any evacuation. A few minutes later one of the last men to withdraw saw Johnston trying to crawl up to his machine gun. At Johnston's request he was helped to his gun and left believing that he was dying. A few minutes later the Company heard the machine gun in action. It continued to fire for about 10 minutes. Afterwards the gun went silent. The Germans passed him as he lay in his position, and, believing him to be dead, stole his shoes. The next day, he painfully worked his way through the German lines to the 180th Regiment, after having been reported by the Company as killed in action. Despite his weakened condition, he gave accurate and vital information about the German positions on the base of which effective firing that was compiled.[6] Herbert C. Jones † Navy Ensign Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Organized and led a party to supply ammunition to the antiaircraft battery of USS California after the mechanical hoists were put out of action when he was fatally wounded by a bomb explosion. When 2 men attempted to take him from the area, he ordered "Leave me alone! I am done for. Get out of here before the magazines go off." Joseph R. Julian † Marine Corps Platoon Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 9, 1945 Sacrificed his life to eliminate an enemy threat This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Victor L. Kandle † Army First Lieutenant near La Forge, France October 9, 1944 John R. Kane Air Forces Colonel Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943 Neel E. Kearby Colonel near Wewak, New Guinea October 11, 1943 For facing 12 to 1 odds at low fuel against Lieutenant Colonel Teranishi's force George D. Keathley † Army Staff Sergeant Mt. Altuzzo, Italy September 14, 1944 After suffering a mortal wound in his left side from a hand grenade, he refused to take cover. He continued to battle the enemy and shout orders to his soldiers. After the platoons of Company B repulsed numerous counterattacks, the enemy withdrew. Staff Sergeant Keathley died shortly after victory was achieved.—
Gus Kefurt † Staff Sergeant near Bennwihr, France December 23, 1944 – December 24, 1944 Jonah E. Kelley † Staff Sergeant Kesternich, Germany January 30, 1945 – January 31, 1945—
Ova A. Kelley † Private Leyte, Philippines December 8, 1944—
Charles E. Kelly Corporal near Altavilla, Italy September 13, 1943—
John D. Kelly † Corporal Fort du Roule, Cherbourg, France June 25, 1944 Thomas J. Kelly Corporal Alemert, Germany April 5, 1945 Reinhardt J. Keppler † Navy Boatswain's Mate First class USS San Francisco, Solomon Islands November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942—
Dexter J. Kerstetter Army Private First Class near Galiano, Luzon, Philippines April 13, 1945—
Patrick L. Kessler † Private First Class near Ponte Rotto, Italy May 23, 1944 Isaac C. Kidd † Navy Rear Admiral Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Remained on the bridge of USS Arizona, discharging his duties as Commander of Battleship Division One and Senior Officer Present Afloat even as the ship blew up from magazine explosions, until a direct bomb hit on the bridge resulted in the loss of his life.—
Truman Kimbro † Army Technician 4th Grade near Rocherath, Belgium December 19, 1944 After repeated attempts to take his squad across a road to lay mines were repulsed by withering fire, Kimbro ordered his squad to stay behind while he crawled across the road alone. Seriously wounded in his advance, Kimbro was able to successfully lay mines on the other side of the road, which helped delay the advance of enemy armor. While trying to return to his squad, Kimbro was killed by intense enemy machine gun and rifle fire.—
Harold G. Kiner † Private near Palenberg, Germany October 2, 1944 David R. Kingsley † Air Forces Second Lieutenant Ploiești Raid, Romania June 23, 1944 Sacrificed himself by giving away his parachute to the injured tailgunner of his crew whose parachute was lost. He then died when his B-17 crashed Elbert L. Kinser † Marine Corps Sergeant Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 4, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body Gerry H. Kisters Army Sergeant near Gagliano, Sicily July 31, 1943—
Alton W. Knappenberger Private First Class near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy February 1, 1944—
Jack L. Knight † First Lieutenant near LoiKang, Burma February 2, 1945 Raymond L. Knight † Air Forces First Lieutenant northern Po Valley, Italy April 24, 1945 – April 25, 1945 Yeiki Kobashigawa Army Technical Sergeant near Lanuvio, Italy June 2, 1944 Destroyed multiple enemy machine gun nests in the vicinity of Lanuvio, Italy. One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Richard E. Kraus † Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group October 3, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body—
Anthony L. Krotiak † Army Private First Class Balete Pass, Luzon, Philippines May 8, 1945 Robert T. Kuroda † Staff Sergeant near Bruyeres, France October 20, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Daniel W. Lee Second Lieutenant Montreval, France September 2, 1944 John H. Leims Marine Corps Second Lieutenant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 7, 1945 Risked his life to rescue several wounded Marines—
Turney W. Leonard † Army First Lieutenant Kommerscheidt, Germany November 4, 1944 – November 6, 1944 William F. Leonard Staff Sergeant Near St. Die, France November 7, 1944 Led an assault continuously swept by enemy automatic fire, killing two snipers, and, despite bullets wounds to his back, destroyed two machine guns and captured a roadblock objective.—
Fred F. Lester † Navy Hospital Apprentice First class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 8, 1945 Darrell R. Lindsey † Air Forces Captain L'Isle Adam railroad bridge over the Seine, France August 9, 1944 Jake W. Lindsey Army Technical Sergeant near Hamich, Germany November 16, 1944 Floyd K. Lindstrom † Private First Class near Mignano, Italy November 11, 1943—
Edgar H. Lloyd † First Lieutenant near Pompey, France September 14, 1944 Donald R. Lobaugh † Private near Afua, New Guinea July 22, 1944—
James M. Logan Sergeant near Salerno, Italy September 9, 1943 Jose M. Lopez Sergeant near Krinkelt, Belgium December 17, 1944 Jacklyn H. Lucas Marine Corps Private First Class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 20, 1945 Youngest recipient since the Civil War (turned 17 just 5 days before Iwo Jima D-Day) Jack Lummus † Marine Corps First Lieutenant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 8, 1945 Had earlier played football for the New York Giants This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Joe E. Mann † Private First Class Best, Holland September 18, 1944 Harry L. Martin † Marine Corps First Lieutenant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 26, 1945 Sacrificed his life to help rescue some of his men who had been overrun by the enemy. Joe P. Martinez † Army Private Attu, Aleutians May 26, 1943 First private to earn the medal in World War II and the first and only soldier to earn such medal in a battle that occurred on American soil Leonard F. Mason † Marine Corps Private First Class Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands July 22, 1944 For single-handedly knocking out two enemy machine guns despite being mortally wounded Archibald Mathies † Air Forces Sergeant over Germany February 20, 1944 Jack W. Mathis † First Lieutenant over Vegesack, Germany March 18, 1943 Robert D. Maxwell Army Technician 5th Grade near Besançon, France September 7, 1944—
Martin O. May † Private First Class legusuku-Yama, Ie Shima, Ryukyu Islands April 19, 1945 – April 21, 1945 Defended his machine gun position for 3 days against Japanese attacks, even when wounded, thus maintaining the American lines. Refusing to withdraw when his machine gun was disabled, he used hand grenades to fight to his death.—
Melvin Mayfield Corporal Cordillera Mountains, Luzon, Philippines July 29, 1945 Mayfield's actions, on July 29, 1945, were the last to earn a Medal of Honor prior to the August 15, 1945, end of hostilities in World War II – though some honorees may have been cited for their Medal after Mayfield's recognition on May 31, 1946.—
Thomas E. McCall Staff Sergeant near San Angelo, Italy January 22, 1944 David McCampbell Navy Commander First and second battles of the Philippine Sea June 19, 1944 Top Navy flying ace with 34 kills, was also awarded the Navy Cross Bruce McCandless Commander Battle off Savo Island November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 Robert H. McCard † Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Saipan, Mariana Islands June 16, 1944 For saving the lives of his tank crewmen. Lloyd G. McCarter Army Private Corregidor, Philippines February 16, 1945 – February 19, 1945 Joseph J. McCarthy Marine Corps Captain Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 21, 1945 Risked his life to eliminate several enemy troops so his men could move forward—
Richard M. McCool Navy Lieutenant off Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 10, 1945 – June 11, 1945 Off the coast of Okinawa Island, McCool helped rescue the survivors of sinking destroyer USS William D. Porter. The next day, his own ship was hit by a Japanese kamikaze. Although he suffered severe burns and shrapnel wounds in the initial explosion, McCool continued to lead his crew in the firefighting and rescue efforts until relief arrived.—
Charles L. McGaha Army Master Sergeant near Lupao, Luzon, Philippines February 7, 1945—
Vernon McGarity Technical Sergeant near Krinkelt, Belgium December 16, 1944 William D. McGee † Private near Mulheim, Germany March 18, 1945—
Troy A. McGill † Sergeant Los Negros Islands, Admiralty Group March 4, 1944—
Francis X. McGraw † Private First Class near Schevenhütte, Germany November 19, 1944 Thomas B. McGuire Jr. † Air Forces Major over Luzon, Philippines December 25, 1944 – December 26, 1944 The second leading air ace in World War II before being killed in action in January 1945. McGuire Air Force Base is named for him.—
John R. McKinney Army Private Tayabas Province, Luzon, Philippines May 11, 1945 Robert M. McTureous Jr. † Marine Corps Private Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 7, 1945 For attacking multiple enemy positions with hand grenades, diverting fire away from stretcher-bearers before he was fatally wounded John J. McVeigh † Army Sergeant near Brest, France August 29, 1944—
William A. McWhorter † Private First Class Leyte, Philippines December 5, 1944—
John W. Meagher Technical Sergeant near Ozato, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 19, 1945 Manuel V. Mendoza Master Sergeant Mt. Battaglia, Italy October 4, 1944 Single-handedly broke up a German counterattack. Gino J. Merli Private First Class near Sars la Bruyere, Belgium September 4, 1944 – September 5, 1944 Held off German troops overnight, even when his machine gun nest was captured.—
Joseph F. Merrell † Private near Lohe, Germany April 18, 1945 Single-handedly attacked German positions which were firing on his unit. He disabled two enemy machine gun emplacements and killed nearly two dozen German soldiers before he was himself killed, at the age of 18.—
Harold O. Messerschmidt † Sergeant near Radden, France September 17, 1944 William E. Metzger Jr. † Air Forces Second Lieutenant Saarbrücken, Germany November 9, 1944 Co-piloted a B-17 aircraft on a bombing run on Saarbrücken. Even though his plane was severely damaged and set ablaze by anti-aircraft fire which wounded the engineer and the radio operator, Metzger and pilot Donald J. Gott successfully dropped their bombs on the target and flew the plane to friendly territory. After having their crew bail out except for the unconscious radio operator, Metzger and Gott attempted to crashland the plane to save their helpless comrade. The plane exploded, killing the three remaining crewmembers on board. Edward S. Michael First Lieutenant over Germany April 11, 1944—
Harry J. Michael † Army Second Lieutenant near Neiderzerf, Germany March 14, 1945—
Andrew Miller † Staff Sergeant from Woippy, France to Kerprich Hemmersdorf, Germany November 16, 1944 – November 29, 1944 James H. Mills Private near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy May 24, 1944—
John W. Minick † Staff Sergeant near Hurtgen, Germany November 21, 1944—
Nicholas Minue † Private near MedjezelBab, Tunisia April 28, 1943 Jimmie W. Monteith Jr. † First Lieutenant near Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, France June 6, 1944 Jack C. Montgomery First Lieutenant near, Padiglione, Italy February 22, 1944—
Harold H. Moon Jr. † Private Pawig, Leyte, Philippines October 21, 1944 John C. Morgan Air Forces Second Lieutenant over Germany July 28, 1943—
Edward J. Moskala † Army Private First Class Kakazu Ridge, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 9, 1945 Kaoru Moto Private First Class near Castellina, Italy July 7, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time.On his own initiative he defeated a machine gun nest killing one soldier and taking a second one prisoner and forced an additional machine gun team to retreat. Even though wounded by sniper fire and relieved of his position, he defeated another machine gun nest on his way back to the rear, taking three more prisoners.
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Charles E. Mower † Sergeant near Capoocan, Leyte, Philippines November 3, 1944—
Joseph E. Muller † Sergeant near Ishimmi, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 15, 1945 – May 16, 1945 Sadao S. Munemori † Private First Class near Seravezza, Italy April 5, 1945 For taking out two machine-gun emplacements and jumping onto a grenade to save 2 soldiers. Douglas A. Munro † Coast Guard Signalman First class off Point Cruz, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands September 27, 1942 Only member of the Coast Guard to receive the Medal of Honor. Kiyoshi K. Muranaga † Army Private First Class near Suvereto, Italy June 26, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Audie L. Murphy Second Lieutenant near Holtzwihr, France January 26, 1945One of the most decorated American combat soldiers of World War II, receiving every military combat award for valor available from the U.S. Army, as well as French and Belgian awards for heroism.
Frederick C. Murphy † Private First Class Siegfried Line at Saarlautern, Germany March 18, 1945 Charles P. Murray Jr. First Lieutenant near Kaysersberg, France December 16, 1944 This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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William L. Nelson † Sergeant Djebel Dardys, Northwest of Sedjenane, Tunisia April 24, 1943—
Ralph G. Neppel Sergeant Birgel, Germany December 14, 1944 Upon returning to America after World War II, Ralph George Neppel received the Medal of Honor for continuing to man his machine gun during the Battle of the Bulge after German fire severed his leg. By staying at his post during the battle he helped destroy German reserves who were thrown at American forces. After he was discharged from the military he returned to Iowa.Neppel died at the age of 63 in 1987.
Robert B. Nett First Lieutenant near Cognon, Leyte, Philippines December 14, 1944 John D. New † Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 25, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body—
Beryl R. Newman Army First Lieutenant near Cisterna, Italy May 26, 1944 For single-handedly destroying three machine gun emplacements.—
Alfred B. Nietzel † Sergeant Heistern, Germany November 18, 1944 When an enemy assault threatened to overrun his unit's position, Nietzel covered for the retreating members of his squad, expending all his ammunition and holding his post until being killed. One of 24 soldiers who received their medals in 2014, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked. Alexander R. Nininger † Second Lieutenant near Abucay, Bataan, Philippines January 12, 1942 Joe M. Nishimoto † Private First Class near La Houssiere, France November 7, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Carlos C. Ogden Army First Lieutenant near Fort du Roule, France June 25, 1944 Edward H. O'Hare Navy Lieutenant off Papua New Guinea February 20, 1942 O'Hare International Airport in Chicago was named in his memory.—
Allan M. Ohata † Army Sergeant near Cerasuolo, Italy November 29, 1943 – November 30, 1943 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Richard H. O'Kane Navy Commander Philippines October 23, 1944 – October 24, 1944 For submarine operations as commanding officer of the U.S.S. Tang operating against two enemy Japanese convoys. Maneuvering on the surface into the midst of a heavily escorted convoy, O'Kane landed hits on three tankers, swung his ship to fire at a freighter and shot out of the path of an onrushing transport. Boxed in by blazing tankers, a freighter, transport, and several destroyers, he blasted two of the targets and cleared the area. Twenty-four hours later, he made contact with another heavily escorted convoy. In the midst of relentless enemy fire, he sent two torpedoes into the first and second transports and an adjacent tanker. He charged the enemy at high speed, exploding the tanker in a burst of flame, smashing the transport dead in the water, and blasting the destroyer. He fired his last two torpedoes at the remnants of the convoy before the second torpedo malfunctioned, performing a circular run and hitting the Tang in the stern. O'Kane along with eight officers survived the sinking. He remained a Japanese prisoner-of-war until 1945. James K. Okubo † Army Technician 5th Grade Foret Domaniale de Champ, near Biffontaine, France October 28, 1944 – October 29, 1944 and November 4, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Yukio Okutsu Technical Sergeant on Mount Belvedere, Italy April 7, 1945 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Arlo L. Olson † Captain crossing of the Volturno River, Italy October 13, 1943—
Truman O. Olson † Sergeant near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy January 30, 1944 – January 31, 1944 Frank H. Ono † Private First Class near Castellina, Italy July 4, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Nicholas Oresko Master Sergeant near Tettingen, Germany January 23, 1945 For single-handedly destroying two bunkers while being seriously wounded. Was oldest living Medal of Honor recipient until passing on October 4, 2013. Kazuo Otani † Staff Sergeant near Pieve Di S. Luce, Italy July 15, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Robert A. Owens † Marine Corps Sergeant Cape Torokina, Bougainville, Solomon Islands November 1, 1943 Charged an enemy bunker housing a 75-mm. gun which was inflicting heavy casualties on the landing force, throwing himself through the gunport, and chasing the crew out of the bunker before he was killed. Joseph W. Ozbourn † Private Tinian, Mariana Islands July 30, 1944 Private Ozbourn saved the lives of four fellow Marines by jumping on the top of a live hand grenade. This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Harl Pease Jr. † Air Forces Captain near Rabaul, New Britain August 6, 1942 – August 7, 1942—
Forrest E. Peden † Army Technician 5th Grade near Biesheim, France February 3, 1945 Forrest Peden enlisted into the army in February 1943, and by February 3, 1945 he was serving as a Technician 5th Grade in Battery C. While in action that day, he had a traumatic experience causing death among his unit. They were ambushed by a larger enemy force. Peden ran for help even though there were enemies firing intensely upon. He ended up finding an allied tank, before leading it back to the site but died when the tank was hit by hostile fire. He received the medal for his actions to protect his unit from heavy fire.—
Jack J. Pendleton † Staff Sergeant Bardenberg, Germany October 12, 1944 Frank D. Peregory † Technical Sergeant Grandcampe, France June 8, 1944 On D-Day +2, Sgt Frank D. Peregory chose to singlehandedly assault the heavily fortified and protected French village of Grandcampe-les-Bains (Point-du-Hoc Sector), Normandy. The strong point objective had previously received, firstly, a barrage from an allied cruiser off the Normandy coast, before heavy artillery and tank fire – all to no avail. It was after this that Sgt Peregory made his way up the hill (strong point approach), under heavy fire. He successfully negotiated the hill approach and entered a trench killing eight enemy and capturing three. After passing the prisoners onto command, he re-entered the trench at a point further along towards the strong point. According to witnesses in Peregory's company, after considerable time, Sgt Peregory eventually reappeared from out of the trenches with thirty-two German prisoners. Fellow soldiers who witnessed Sgt Peregory's actions, state that he had used hand grenades in the incursion (having no rifle or handgun on his person), before the remaining Germans surrendered. The 116th Infantry (of which Sgt Peregory was contingent), was reassigned two days after actions at Grandcampe-les-Bains, on the 13th June. The following day, Sgt Peregory assaulted an enemy machine gun position and was killed in action. The medal that was meant to be awarded in person, was awarded posthumously. Manuel Perez Jr. † Private First Class Fort William McKinley, Luzon, Philippines February 13, 1945—
George J. Peters † Private near Fluren, Germany March 24, 1945—
George Peterson † Staff Sergeant near Eisern, Germany March 30, 1945 Oscar V. Peterson † Navy Chief Watertender USS Neosho, Battle of the Coral Sea May 7, 1942 Frank J. Petrarca † Army Private First Class Horseshoe Hill, New Georgia, Solomon Islands July 27, 1943 Jackson C. Pharris Navy Gunner Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii December 7, 1941 In charge of an ordnance repair party on USS California, severely injured by explosions and twice rendered unconscious by nauseous oil fumes while setting up a hand-supply ammunition train for the antiaircraft guns, ordering shipfitters to counterflood to address a list (keeping the California in action), repeatedly entered flooding compartments to drag unconscious shipmates to safety.—
Wesley Phelps † Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group October 4, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body George Phillips † Private Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 14, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body Francis J. Pierce Navy Pharmacist's Mate First class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 15, 1945 – March 16, 1945 Risked his life to save several wounded Marines and volunteered for a mission to eliminate an enemy threat John J. Pinder Jr. † Army Technician 5th Grade near Colleville-sur-Mer, France June 6, 1944 Everett P. Pope Marine Corps Captain Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 19, 1944 – September 20, 1944 For leading his company in the capture of a steep coral hill and holding it throughout the night despite repeated enemy attacks and the loss of most of his men John V. Power † Marine Corps First Lieutenant Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands February 1, 1944 Although painfully wounded, he charged an enemy position and was killed in the doorway of a pillbox. John J. Powers † Navy Lieutenant over the Coral Sea and adjacent waters May 4, 1942 – May 8, 1942—
Leo J. Powers Army Private First Class northwest of Cassino, Italy February 3, 1944 Arthur M. Preston Navy Lieutenant Wasile Bay, Halmahera Island September 16, 1944 Lt. Comdr. (then Lieutenant) Preston received The Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commander, Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron 33, while effecting the rescue of a Navy pilot shot down in Wasile Bay, Halmahera Island, less than 200 yards from a strongly defended Japanese dock and supply area, September 16, 1944. Volunteering for a perilous mission unsuccessfully attempted by the pilot's squadron mates and a PBY plane, Lt. Comdr. (then Lieutenant) Preston led PT-489 and PT-363 through 60 miles of restricted, heavily mined waters. Twice turned back while running the gauntlet of fire from powerful coastal defense guns guarding the 11-mile strait at the entrance to the bay, he was again turned back by furious fire in the immediate area of the downed airman. Aided by an aircraft smoke screen, he finally succeeded in reaching his objective and, under vicious fire delivered at 150-yard range, took the pilot aboard and cleared the area, sinking a small hostile cargo vessel with 40-mm. fire during retirement. Increasingly vulnerable when covering aircraft were forced to leave because of insufficient fuel, Lt. Comdr. Preston raced PT boats 489 and 363 at high speed for 20 minutes through shell-splashed water and across minefields to safety. Under continuous fire for 2+1⁄2 hours, Lt. Comdr. Preston successfully achieved a mission considered suicidal in its tremendous hazards, and brought his boats through without personnel casualties and with but superficial damage from shrapnel. His exceptional daring and great personal valor enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.—
Ernest W. Prussman † Army Private First Class near Les Coates, Brittany, France September 8, 1944 Donald D. Pucket † Air Forces First Lieutenant Ploiești Raid, Romania July 9, 1944 This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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Bernard J. Ray † Army First Lieutenant Hurtgen Forest near Schevenhütte, Germany November 17, 1944—
James W. Reese † Private Mt. Vassillio, Sicily August 5, 1943 Sent mortars into enemy position in the line of fire so that his comrades can get across the hill. Shot down after the mortars were finally used up.—
John N. Reese Jr. † Private First Class Paco Railroad Station, Manila, Philippines February 9, 1945 Private First Class John N. Reese Jr was engaged in the attack on the Paco Railroad Station, which was strongly defended by 300 determined enemy soldiers with machine guns and rifles, supported by several pillboxes, three 20mm. guns, one 37-mm. gun and heavy mortars.His platoon was halted 100 yards from the station by intense enemy fire. On his own initiative, he left the platoon, accompanied by a comrade, and continued forward to a house 60 yards from the objective. Although under constant enemy observation, the two men remained in this position for an hour, firing at targets of opportunity, killing more than 35 Japanese and wounding many more. Moving closer to the station and discovering a group of Japanese replacements attempting to reach pillboxes, they opened heavy fire, killed more than 40 and stopped all subsequent attempts to man the emplacements. Enemy fire became more intense as they advanced to within 20 yards of the station. From that point Pfc. Reese provided effective covering fire and courageously drew enemy fire to himself while his companion killed seven Japanese and destroyed a 20-mm. gun and heavy machine gun with hand grenades. With their ammunition running low, the two men started to return to the American lines, alternately providing covering fire for each other as they withdrew. During this movement, Pfc. Reese was killed by enemy fire as he reloaded his rifle. The intrepid team, in two and one-half hours of fierce fighting, killed more than 82 Japanese, completely disorganized their defense and paved the way for subsequent complete defeat of the enemy at this strong point.[7]
Thomas J. Reeves † Navy Chief Radioman USS California, Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941 After the mechanized ammunition hoists were put out of action in USS California, in a burning passageway, assisted in ammunition supply by hand to the antiaircraft guns until he was killed by smoke and fire. Milton E. Ricketts † Lieutenant USS Yorktown, Battle of the Coral Sea May 8, 1942—
Paul F. Riordan † Army Second Lieutenant near Cassino, Italy February 3, 1944 – February 8, 1944 Ruben Rivers † Staff Sergeant toward Guebling, France November 15, 1944 – November 19, 1944 One of seven African-American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. From his citation "for extraordinary heroism" in an assault on German positions near Guebling, France: "Though severely wounded in the leg, Sergeant Rivers refused medical treatment and evacuation, took command of another tank, and advanced with his company in Guebling the next day. Repeatedly refusing evacuation, Sergeant Rivers continued to direct his tank's fire at enemy positions through the morning of 19 November 1944. At dawn, Company A's tanks began to advance towards Bougaktroff, but were stopped by enemy fire. Sergeant Rivers, joined by another tank, opened fire on the enemy tanks, covering company A as they withdrew. While doing so, Sergeant Rivers's tank was hit, killing him and wounding the crew." Charles H. Roan † Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 18, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body James E. Robinson Jr. † Army First Lieutenant near Untergriesheim, Germany April 6, 1945 Cleto L. Rodriguez Private Paco Railroad Station, Manila, Philippines February 9, 1945—
Robert E. Roeder † Captain Mt. Battaglia, Italy September 27, 1944 – September 28, 1944 Albert H. Rooks † Navy Captain USS Houston on the Java Sea February 4, 1942 – February 27, 1942 Commanded USS Houston during early days of war. Led during Battle of Java Sea. Killed in action while attempting to lead Houston and HMAS Perth to safety in Sunda Strait. Theodore Roosevelt Jr. † Army Brigadier General Utah Beach, Normandy invasion June 6, 1944 With his father, Theodore Roosevelt, became second father and son pair to both receive the Medal of Honor. Died of a heart attack before he could receive the award. Donald K. Ross Navy Machinist Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii December 7, 1941 Forced his men to leave the untenable forward dynamo room of USS Nevada and performed all the duties himself until unconscious, returned to dynamo room after being resuscitated, worked the after dynamo room until unconscious, recovered and returned to his station until directed to abandon it. Wilburn K. Ross Army Private near St. Jacques, France October 30, 1944 Carlton R. Rouh Marine Corps First Lieutenant Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 15, 1944 For risking his life by smothering a grenade with his body Donald E. Rudolph Army Technical Sergeant Munoz, Luzon, Philippines February 5, 1945 For destroying 8 pillboxes, a trench and a tank while under fire. Donald J. Ruhl † Marine Corps Private First Class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 – February 21, 1945 Saved several of his fellow Marines by sacrificing his life and diving on an enemy grenade Alejandro R. Ruiz Army Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 28, 1945 This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
—
Joseph J. Sadowski † Army Sergeant Valhey, France September 14, 1944 George T. Sakato Private Hill 617, near Biffontaine, France October 29, 1944 One of 22 Asian-American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time.—
Benjamin L. Salomon † Captain Saipan, Mariana Islands July 7, 1944 Ben L. Salomon was treating patients when Japanese soldiers came inside the tent, Salomon picked up a M1 Garand and shot the first one, stabbed the second one with a bayonet, stabbed the third one with a knife and butted the fourth in the stomach, who was then killed by a wounded patient with an M1911 pistol. Salomon ordered the retreat of the wounded soldiers to the nearby medical station and he gave them cover by firing a M1917 Browning machine gun at the charging Japanese soldiers. A few days later, an army team found him with 98 dead Japanese soldiers in front of his body. Salomon had 76 bullet wounds and bayonet ones, of which he had received 24 while he was still alive. After repeated recommendations were denied, he was finally awarded the medal of honor posthumously in 2002. Joseph R. Sarnoski † Air Forces Second Lieutenant over Buka area, Solomon Islands June 16, 1943 On 16 June 1943, 2d Lt. Sarnoski volunteered as bombardier of a crew on an important photographic mapping mission covering the defended Buka area, and Solomon Islands. When the mission was nearly completed about 20 enemy fighters got in the way. At the nose guns 2d Lt. Sarnoski fought off the first attackers, making it possible for the pilot to finish the course. When a coordinated frontal attack by the enemy severely damaged his bomber and seriously injured five of the crew, 2d Lt. Sarnoski though wounded continued to fire and shoot down two enemy planes. With his fighting spirit after he had gotten knocked down he crawled back up to his spot to continue on fighting. Second Lt. Sarnoski, by resolute the defense of his aircraft at the price of his life made it possible for the mission to be complete.—
Foster J. Sayers † Army Private First Class near Thionville, France November 12, 1944 "During an attack on strong hostile forces entrenched on a hill he fearlessly ran up the steep approach toward his objective and set up his machine gun 20 yards from the enemy. Then he realized it would be necessary to attract full attention of the dug in Germans while his company crossed an open area and flanked the enemy, and he picked up his gun charged through the crazy machine gun and rifle fire to the very edge of the emplacement, and there killed 12 German soldiers with a devastating close range fire. He took up a position behind a log and engaged the hostile infantry from the flank in an heroic attempt to distract their attention while his comrades attained their objective at the bottom of the hill. He was killed by the very heavy concentration of return fire but his fearless assault enabled his company to sweep the hill with a minimum of casualties, killing or capturing every enemy soldier on it. Sayers's indomitable fighting spirit, aggressiveness, and supreme devotion to duty live on as an example of the highest traditions of the military service."[8]—
Joseph E. Schaefer Staff Sergeant near Stolberg, Germany September 24, 1944—
Henry Schauer Private First Class near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy May 23, 1944 – May 24, 1944 Herbert E. Schonland Navy Commander Savo Island November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 Took command of USS San Francisco after captain had been killed, fought ship and led her to safety. Albert E. Schwab † Marine Corps Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 7, 1945 For single-handedly destroying two Japanese machine gun positions with a flamethrower before he was killed Donald K. Schwab † Army First Lieutenant Near Lure, Haute-Saône, France September 17, 1944 Under intense enemy fire, dismantled a strong German position and took a prisoner of war. Norman Scott † Navy Rear Admiral off Savo Island October 11, 1942 – October 12, 1942 and November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 Robert R. Scott † Machinist's Mate First class Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 When his battle station compartment flooded on USS California, site of an air compressor for the guns, Scott refused to leave as "This is my station and I will stay and give them air as long as the guns are going." Robert S. Scott Army First Lieutenant near Munda Air Strip, New Georgia, Solomon Islands July 29, 1943 For single-handedly defeating a Japanese patrol.—
Charles W. Shea Second Lieutenant near Mount Damiano, Italy May 12, 1944—
Carl V. Sheridan † Private First Class Frenzenberg Castle, Weisweiler, Germany November 26, 1944 William R. Shockley † Private First Class Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines March 31, 1945 William A. Shomo Air Forces Major over Luzon, Philippines January 11, 1945 7 victories in one action—
Curtis F. Shoup † Army Staff Sergeant near Tillet, Belgium January 7, 1945 David M. Shoup Marine Corps Colonel Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands November 20, 1943 – November 22, 1943 Wrote battle plan for Tarawa assault, directed assault from trench on Betio beach as first waves came ashore. Twenty-second Commandant of the United States Marine Corps (January 1, 1960 – December 31, 1963) Franklin E. Sigler Private Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 14, 1945 Led a charge against an enemy gun installation which had held up the advance of his company for several days—
Edward A. Silk Army First Lieutenant near St. Pravel, France November 23, 1944—
John C. Sjogren Staff Sergeant near San Jose Hacienda, Negros, Philippines May 23, 1945 Luther Skaggs Jr. Marine Corps Private First Class Asan-Adelup beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands July 21, 1944 – July 22, 1944 Despite losing part of his leg to a grenade, he continued to maintain his position in his foxhole, fighting the enemy for eight more hours—
James D. Slaton Army Corporal near Oliveto, Italy September 23, 1943—
Furman L. Smith † Private near Lanuvio, Italy May 31, 1944 John L. Smith Marine Corps Major Solomon Islands area August 1942 – September 1942 Led his squadron in shooting down 83 enemy aircraft during this period, he himself shot down 19 planes Maynard H. Smith Air Forces Sergeant over Brest, France May 1, 1943 AKA- Snuffy Smith. On his first mission as a B-17 gunner Sgt. Smith helped save the lives of six of his wounded comrades, put out a fire, and drove off waves of German fighters. William A. Soderman Army Private First Class near Rocherath, Belgium December 17, 1944 Richard K. Sorenson Marine Corps Private Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands February 1, 1944 – February 2, 1944 For risking his life by smothering a grenade with his body—
Joe C. Specker † Army Sergeant Mount Porchia, Italy January 7, 1944 Junior J. Spurrier Staff Sergeant Achain, France November 13, 1944 John C. Squires † Private First Class near Padiglione, Italy April 23, 1944 – April 24, 1944 Tony Stein † Marine Corps Corporal Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 First Medal of Honor of Iwo Jima George L. Street, III Navy Lieutenant Commander harbor of Quelpart Island, off the coast of Korea April 14, 1945 For torpedoing three enemy ships while captain of USS Triante. Stuart S. Stryker † Army Private First Class near Wesel, Germany March 24, 1945 James E. Swett Marine Corps First Lieutenant Solomon Islands area April 7, 1943 For downing eight Japanese Vals off the coast of Guadalcanal This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
—
Seymour W. Terry † Captain Zebra Hill, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 11, 1945 Charles L. Thomas † First Lieutenant near Climbach, France December 14, 1944 One of seven African-American soldiers who received their awards belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Herbert J. Thomas † Marine Corps Sergeant Koromokina River, Bougainville, Solomon Islands November 7, 1943 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body—
William H. Thomas † Army Private First Class Zambales Mountains, Luzon, Philippines April 22, 1945 Clyde A. Thomason † Marine Corps Sergeant Makin Atoll August 17, 1942 – August 18, 1942 For leading Marines during the Makin Island raid. He was the first enlisted Marine to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions during World War II. Max Thompson Army Sergeant near Haaren, Germany October 18, 1944—
Horace M. Thorne † Corporal near Grufflingen, Belgium December 21, 1944—
John F. Thorson † Private First Class Dagami, Leyte, Philippines October 28, 1944 Grant F. Timmerman † Marine Corps Sergeant Saipan, Mariana Islands July 8, 1944 Sacrificed his life to prevent an enemy grenade from falling through the open hatch of his tank Peter Tomich † Navy Chief Watertender USS Utah (BB-31), Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Although realizing that USS Utah was capsizing, remained at his post in the engineering plant until he saw that all boilers were secured and all fireroom personnel had left their stations.—
John J. Tominac Army First Lieutenant Saulx de Vesoul, France September 12, 1944 John R. Towle † Private near Oosterhout, Holland September 21, 1944 Jack L. Treadwell First Lieutenant near Nieder-Wurzbach, Germany March 18, 1945 Walter E. Truemper † Air Forces Second Lieutenant over Germany February 20, 1944—
Day G. Turner † Army Sergeant Dahl, Luxembourg January 8, 1945 George B. Turner Private First Class Philippsbourg, France January 3, 1945 – January 4, 1945 This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
—
Dirk J. Vlug Private First Class near Limon, Leyte, Philippines December 15, 1944 Forrest L. Vosler Air Forces Technical Sergeant over Bremen, Germany December 20, 1943 This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
—
Herman C. Wallace † Army Private First Class near Prümzurlay, Germany February 27, 1945 Kenneth A. Walsh Marine Corps First Lieutenant Solomon Islands area August 15, 1943 and August 30, 1943 One of the top Marine fighter aces of the war with 21 kills William G. Walsh † Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 27, 1945 For leading his Marines in a fierce assault on an enemy held ridge before he sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body James R. Ward † Navy Seaman First Class Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 During evacuation of USS Oklahoma, remained in a turret, holding a flashlight so the remainder of the turret crew could see to escape, thereby sacrificing his own life. Keith L. Ware Army Lieutenant Colonel near Sigolsheim, France December 26, 1944—
Henry F. Warner † Corporal near Dom Butgenbach, Belgium December 20, 1944 – December 21, 1944 George Watson † Private at sea near New Guinea March 8, 1943 Watson was one of seven African-American soldiers who received their medals in a belated 1997 ceremony, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Wilson D. Watson Marine Corps Private Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 26, 1945 – February 27, 1945 Risked his life fighting the enemy single-handedly for 15 minutes until his platoon could catch up to him, personally killing 60 of the enemy—
Robert T. Waugh † Army First Lieutenant near Tremensucli, Italy May 11, 1944 – May 14, 1944 David C. Waybur First Lieutenant near Agrigento, Sicily July 17, 1943 Led his patrol in holding off an Italian tank attack despite severe wounds. He later returned to combat and was killed in 1945—
Ellis R. Weicht † Sergeant St. Hippolyte, France December 3, 1944—
Walter C. Wetzel † Private First Class Birken, Germany April 3, 1945—
Eli L. Whiteley First Lieutenant Sigolsheim, France December 27, 1944—
Hulon B. Whittington Sergeant near Grimesnil, France July 29, 1944—
Paul J. Wiedorfer Private near, Chaumont, Belgium December 25, 1944—
Thomas W. Wigle † Second Lieutenant Monte Frassino, Italy September 14, 1944 William H. Wilbur Colonel Fedala, Morocco November 8, 1942—
Edward G. Wilkin † Corporal Siegfried Line in Germany March 18, 1945 Raymond H. Wilkins † Air Forces Major near Rabaul, New Britain November 2, 1943—
Walter J. Will † Army First Lieutenant near Eisern, Germany March 30, 1945 Despite being wounded numerous times: rescued three wounded men, single-handedly neutralized two enemy machine gun nests, and went on to lead his squad to capture two more before being killed in another charge. Hershel W. Williams Marine Corps Corporal Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 23, 1945 A demolition sergeant, Williams volunteered to advance alone and attempt to silence enemy positions. Returning periodically to collect more demolition charges and refueled flamethrowers, Williams systematically destroyed enemy pillboxes and emplacements, engaging in near hand-to-hand combat. Williams was the last surviving World War II medal of honor winner until his death on June 29, 2022. Jack Williams † Navy Pharmacist's Mate Third class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 3, 1945 Navy Corpsman who risked his life charging through enemy fire to rescue wounded comrades. Wounded several times, Williams neglected his own wounds to care for the wounded Marines around him, exposing himself to enemy fire. John H. Willis † Pharmacist's Mate First class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 28, 1945 During a heated battle, Willis, while wounded himself, advanced to the aid of a wounded Marine. While administering plasma to the Marine, he quickly hurled back an enemy grenade that landed in their shell hole. He returned the seven others that followed as well, before a ninth exploded in his hand, killing him instantly. Alfred L. Wilson † Army Technician 5th Grade near Bezange la Petite, France November 8, 1944 Volunteered as an aid man to assist another company that was taking heavy casualties. Mortally wounded by a shell that burst among him and the wounded men he was treating, he continued to provide aid to those injured while refusing it himself. As blood loss made him too weak to walk or crawl, he directed enlisted men on how to treat the wounded, before succumbing to his injuries. Louis H. Wilson Jr. Marine Corps Captain Fonte Hill, Guam, Mariana Islands July 25, 1944 – July 26, 1944 Later became commandant of the Marine Corps. Robert L. Wilson † Marine Corps Private First Class Tinian, Mariana Islands August 3, 1944 Sacrificed himself by jumping on an enemy grenade that landed among his squad. Homer L. Wise Army Staff Sergeant Magliano, Italy June 14, 1944 Frank P. Witek † Marine Corps Private First Class Battle of Finegayen, Guam, Mariana Islands August 3, 1944 For knocking out several enemy positions, killing 16 Japanese soldiers before he was killed.—
Howard E. Woodford † Army Staff Sergeant near Tabio, Luzon, Philippines June 6, 1945 By daring, skillful, and inspiring leadership, as well as by gallant determination to search out and kill the enemy, led an inexperienced unit in capturing and securing a vital objective, and was responsible for the successful continuance of a vitally important general advance. Transport ship named after him. This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
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