"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty as acting scout sergeant of a forward observer team, serving with Battery L, Fourth Battalion, Fifteenth
Marines, Sixth Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese
forces in Okinawa Shima in the Ryūkyū Chain,
15 April 1945. Undaunted by the powerfully organized opposition
encountered on Motobu Peninsula during a fierce assault waged by a
Marine infantry battalion against a Japanese strong-hold, Private First
Class Gonsalves repeatedly braved the terrific hostile bombardment to
aid his forward observation team in directing well-placed artillery
fire and, when his commanding officer determined to move into the front
lines in order to register a more effective bombardment in the enemy's
defensive position, unhesitatingly advanced uphill with the officer and
another Marine despite a slashing barrage of enemy mortar and rifle fire. As they reached the front, a Japanese grenade
fell close within the group. Instantly Private First Class Gonsalves
dived on the deadly missile, absorbing the exploding charge in his own
body and thereby protecting the others from serious and perhaps fatal
wounds. Stouthearted and indomitable, Private First Class Gonsalves
readily yielded his own chances of survival that his fellow Marines
might carry on the relentless battle against the fanatic Japanese and
his cool decision, prompt action and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in
the face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
"
From PFC. Gonsalves' Medal of Honor citation, awarded on June 19, 1946.
Thank you for your sacrifice and may you be at peace,
Brian
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