"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty while serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands 20 February 1945. While
creeping through a treacherous, twisting ravine which ran in close
proximity to a fluid and uncertain front line on D-plus-1 Day, Private
First Class Lucas and three other men were suddenly ambushed by a
hostile patrol which savagely attacked with rifle fire and grenades.
Quick to act when the lives of the small group were endangered by two
grenades which landed directly in front of them, Private First Class
Lucas unhesitatingly hurled himself over his comrades upon one grenade
and pulled the other one under him, absorbing the whole blasting force
of the explosions in his own body in order to shield his companions from
the concussion and murderous flying fragments. By his inspiring action
and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, he not only protected his comrades
from certain injury or possible death, but also enabled them to rout
the Japanese patrol and continue the advance. His exceptionally
courageous initiative and loyalty reflect the highest credit upon
Private First Class Lucas and the United States Naval Service."
From PFC Lucas' Medal of Honor citation, awarded on October 5, 1945.
May you be at peace,
Brian
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