"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman with an
Assault Rifle Platoon, attached to the First Battalion, Twenty-second
Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese
forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain, 8 June 1945. Quick to spot a
wounded marine lying in an open field beyond the front lines following
the relentless assault against a strategic Japanese hill position,
LESTER unhesitatingly crawled toward the casualty under a concentrated
barrage from hostile machine guns, rifles, and grenades. Torn by enemy
rifle bullets as he inched forward, he stoically disregarded the
mounting fury of Japanese fire and his own pain to pull the wounded man
toward a covered position. Struck by enemy fire a second time before he
reached cover, he exerted tremendous effort and succeeded in pulling his
comrade to safety where, too seriously wounded himself to administer
aid, he instructed 2 of his squad in proper medical treatment of the
rescued marine. Realizing that his own wounds were fatal, he staunchly
refused medical attention for himself and, gathering his fast-waning
strength with calm determination, coolly and expertly directed his men
in the treatment of 2 other wounded marines, succumbing shortly
thereafter. Completely selfless in his concern for the welfare of his
fighting comrades, Lester, by his indomitable spirit, outstanding valor,
and competent direction of others, had saved the life of 1 who
otherwise must have perished and had contributed to the safety of
countless others. LESTER's fortitude in the face of certain death
sustains and enhances the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country."
From HM1 Lester's Medal of Honor citation, awarded in 1945.
A truly amazing sailor,
Brian
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