"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty while serving with the Eighth Amphibian Tractor Battalion, Third Amphibious Corps, Fleet Marine Force, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands,
on 5 October 1944. Unhesitatingly volunteering for the extremely
hazardous mission of evacuating a wounded comrade from the front lines,
Private First Class Kraus and three companions courageously made their
way forward and successfully penetrated the lines for some distance
before the enemy opened with an intense, devastating barrage of hand
grenades which forced the stretcher party to take cover and subsequently
abandon the mission. While returning to the rear, they observed two men
approaching who appeared to be Marines and immediately demanded the
password. When, instead of answering, one of the two Japanese threw a
hand grenade into the midst of the group, Private First Class Kraus
heroically flung himself upon the grenade and, covering it with his
body, absorbed the full impact of the explosion and was instantly
killed. By his prompt action and great personal valor in the face of
almost certain death, he saved the lives of his three companions, and
his loyal spirit of self-sacrifice reflects the highest credit upon
himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his comrades."
From PFC Kraus' Medal of Honor citation, awarded in 1946.
May you be at peace,
Brian
Assault Amphibian Schools Battalion at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton named in his memory.
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