"Private First Class Kaoru Moto distinguished himself by extraordinary
heroism in action on 7 July 1944, near Castellina, Italy. While serving
as first scout, Private First Class Moto observed a machine gun nest
that was hindering his platoon's progress. On his own initiative, he
made his way to a point ten paces from the hostile position, and killed
the enemy machine gunner. Immediately, the enemy assistant gunner opened
fire in the direction of Private First Class Moto. Crawling to the rear
of the position, Private First Class Moto surprised the enemy soldier,
who quickly surrendered. Taking his prisoner with him, Private First
Class Moto took a position a few yards from a house to prevent the enemy
from using the building as an observation post. While guarding the
house and his prisoner, he observed an enemy machine gun team moving
into position. He engaged them, and with deadly fire forced the enemy to
withdraw. An enemy sniper located in another house fired at Private
First Class Moto, severely wounding him. Applying first aid to his
wound, he changed position to elude the sniper fire and to advance. Finally relieved of his position, he made his way to the rear for
treatment. Crossing a road, he spotted an enemy machine gun nest. Opening fire, he wounded two of the three soldiers occupying the
position. Not satisfied with this accomplishment, he then crawled
forward to a better position and ordered the enemy soldier to surrender. Receiving no answer, Private First Class Moto fired at the position,
and the soldiers surrendered. Private First Class Moto's extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions
of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the
United States Army."
From PFC Moto's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on June 21, 2000.
A hero that finally received the honor de deserved,
Brian & Mel
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