"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and
beyond the call of duty, in action on the western ridge of Mount
Altuzzo, Italy. After bitter fighting his company had advanced to within
50 yards of the objective, where it was held up due to intense enemy
sniper, automatic, small arms, and mortar fire. The enemy launched 3
desperate counterattacks in an effort to regain their former positions,
but all 3 were repulsed with heavy casualties on both sides. All
officers and non-commissioned officers of the 2d and 3d platoons of Company B had become casualties, and S/Sgt. Keathley, guide of the 1st
platoon, moved up and assumed command of both the 2d and 3d platoons,
reduced to 20 men. The remnants of the 2 platoons were dangerously low
on ammunition, so S/Sgt. Keathley, under deadly small arms and mortar
fire, crawled from 1 casualty to another, collecting their ammunition
and administering first aid. He then visited each man of his 2 platoons,
issuing the precious ammunition he had collected from the dead and
wounded, and giving them words of encouragement. The enemy now delivered
their fourth counterattack, which was approximately 2 companies in
strength. In a furious charge they attacked from the front and both
flanks, throwing hand grenades, firing automatic weapons, and assisted
by a terrific mortar barrage. So strong was the enemy counterattack that
the company was given up for lost. The remnants of the 2d and 3d
platoons of Company B were now looking to S/Sgt. Keathley for
leadership. He shouted his orders precisely and with determination and
the men responded with all that was in them. Time after time the enemy
tried to drive a wedge into S/Sgt. Keathley's position and each time
they were driven back, suffering huge casualties. Suddenly an enemy hand
grenade hit and exploded near S/Sgt. Keathley, inflicting a mortal
wound in his left side. However, hurling defiance at the enemy, he rose
to his feet. Taking his left hand away from his wound and using it to
steady his rifle, he fired and killed an attacking enemy soldier, and
continued shouting orders to his men. His heroic and intrepid action so
inspired his men that they fought with incomparable determination and
viciousness. For 15 minutes S/Sgt. Keathley continued leading his men
and effectively firing his rifle. He could have sought a sheltered spot
and perhaps saved his life, but instead he elected to set an example for
his men and make every possible effort to hold his position. Finally,
friendly artillery fire helped to force the enemy to withdraw, leaving
behind many of their number either dead or seriously wounded. S/Sgt.
Keathley died a few moments later. Had it not been for his indomitable
courage and incomparable heroism, the remnants of 3 rifle platoons of
Company B might well have been annihilated by the overwhelming enemy
attacking force. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the military service."
From S/Sgt. Keathley's Medal on Honor citation, awarded on March 29, 1945.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
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