"For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry in action against
enemy Japanese forces, above and beyond the call of duty, while serving
with the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division in the Lunga
Area, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 24 and 25 October 1942. While the
enemy was hammering at the Marines' defensive positions, Sgt. Basilone,
in charge of 2 sections of heavy machine guns, fought valiantly to
check the savage and determined assault. In a fierce frontal attack with
the Japanese blasting his guns with grenades and mortar fire, one of
Sgt. Basilone's sections, with its gun crews, was put out of action,
leaving only 2 men able to carry on. Moving an extra gun into position,
he placed it in action, then, under continual fire, repaired another and
personally manned it, gallantly holding his line until replacements
arrived. A little later, with ammunition critically low and the supply
lines cut off, Sgt. Basilone, at great risk of his life and in the face
of continued enemy attack, battled his way through hostile lines with
urgently needed shells for his gunners, thereby contributing in large
measure to the virtual annihilation of a Japanese regiment. His great
personal valor and courageous initiative were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service"
From Gunnery Sgt John Basilone's Medal of Honor citation, awarded in 1943.
Thank you for your service and may you be at peace,
Thank you for your service and may you be at peace,
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