List of Medal of Honor recipients for World War II
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This is a list of Medal of Honor recipients for World War II. The Medal of Honor was created during the American Civil War and is the highest military decoration presented by the United States government to a member of its armed forces. The recipient must have distinguished themselves at the risk of their own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy of the United States. Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented posthumously.[1]
World War II, or the Second World War, was a global military conflict, the joining of what had initially been two separate conflicts. The first began in Asia in 1937 as the Second Sino-Japanese War; the other began in Europe in 1939 with the German and Soviet invasion of Poland.[2] This global conflict split the majority of the world's nations into two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis powers.
The United States, and its military, was drawn into World War II on December 7, 1941, when Axis-member Japan launched the Attack on Pearl Harbor and European territories in the Pacific Ocean.
During this war 464 United States military personnel received the Medal of Honor, 266 (57.3%) of them posthumously. Seventeen of these were Japanese-Americans fighting in both Europe and the Pacific, many of which were upgraded from Distinguished Service Crosses during the Clinton administration. Additionally, Douglas Albert Munro was the only serviceman from the United States Coast Guard in United States military history to receive the Medal for his actions during the war.
The earliest action for which a U.S. serviceman earned a World War II Medal of Honor was the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, for which seventeen U.S. servicemen were awarded a Medal. The last action to earn a contemporaneous Medal of Honor prior to the August 15, 1945, end of hostilities in World War II, were those of Melvin Mayfield, on July 29, 1945 – though several honorees may have been cited for their Medal after Mayfield's recognition on May 31, 1946. Additionally, seven African Americans and twenty-two Asian American veterans who had received the Distinguished Service Cross during the war were awarded the Medal of Honor in 1997 and 2000 — most of them posthumously — after two studies determined that racial discrimination had caused them to be overlooked at the time.[3]
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This with the † indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Adams, LucianLucian Adams | Army | Staff Sergeant | near St. Die, France | October 28, 1944 | For single-handedly destroying enemy machine gun emplacements to re-establish supply lines to U.S. Army companies |
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Agerholm, Harold C.Harold C. Agerholm † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Saipan, Marianas Islands | July 7, 1944 | For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the Fourth Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 7 July 1944. When the enemy launched a fierce, determined counterattack against our positions and overran a neighboring artillery battalion, Private First Class Agerholm immediately volunteered to assist in the efforts to check the hostile attack and evacuate our wounded. Locating and appropriating an abandoned ambulance jeep, he repeatedly made extremely perilous trips under heavy rifle and mortar fire and single-handledly loaded and evacuated approximately 45 casualties, working tirelessly and with utter disregard for his own safety during a gruelling period of more than 3 hours. Despite intense, persistent enemy fire, he ran out to aid two men whom he believed to be wounded Marines but was himself mortally wounded by a Japanese sniper while carrying out his hazardous mission. |
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Anderson, Beauford T.Beauford T. Anderson | Army | Technical Sergeant | Okinawa | April 13, 1945 | Risked his life to save several of his fellow soldiers and repel an enemy attack single-handedly. |
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Anderson, Richard B.Richard B. Anderson † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Roi Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands | February 1, 1944 | For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the FOURTH Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces on Roi Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, 1 February 1944. Entering a shell crater occupied by three other Marines, Private First Class Anderson was preparing to throw a grenade at an enemy position when it slipped from his hands and rolled toward the men at the bottom of the hole. With insufficient time to retrieve the armed weapon and throw it, Private First Class Anderson fearlessly chose to sacrifice himself and save his companions by hurling his body upon the grenade and taking the full impact of the explosion. |
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Antolak, SylvesterSylvester Antolak † | Army | Sergeant | near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy | May 24, 1944 | Near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy, he charged 200 yards over flat, coverless terrain to destroy an enemy machinegun nest during the second day of the offensive which broke through the German cordon of steel around the Anzio beachhead. |
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Antrim, Richard N.Richard N. Antrim | Navy | Lieutenant | Makassar, Celebes, Netherlands East Indies | April 1942 | During the early part of his imprisonment at Makassar in April 1942, he saw a Japanese guard brutally beating a fellow prisoner of war and successfully intervened, at great risk to his own life. For his conspicuous act of valor, Antrim later received the Medal of Honor. |
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Atkins, Thomas E.Thomas E. Atkins | Army | Private First Class | Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines | March 10, 1945 | Remained in his fox hole for 4 hours bearing the brunt of each enemy assault and maintaining fire until each charge was repulsed. |
B
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Bailey, Kenneth D.Kenneth D. Bailey † | Marine Corps | Major | Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands | September 12, 1942 – September 13, 1942 | For extraordinary courage and heroic conduct above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of Company C, First Marine Raider Battalion, during the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 12–13 September 1942. Completely reorganized following the severe engagement of the night before, Major Bailey's company, within an hour after taking its assigned position as reserve battalion between the main line and the coveted airport, was threatened on the right flank by the penetration of the enemy into a gap in the main line. In addition to repulsing this threat, while steadily improving his own desperately held position, he used every weapon at his command to cover the forced withdrawal of the main line before a hammering assault by superior enemy forces. After rendering invaluable service to the battalion commander in stemming the retreat, reorganizing the troops and extending the reverse position to the left, Major Bailey, despite a severe head wound, repeatedly led his troops in fierce hand-to-hand combat for a period of 10 hours. His great personal valor while exposed to constant and merciless enemy fire, and his indomitable fighting spirit inspired his troops to heights of heroic endeavor which enabled them to repulse the enemy and hold Henderson Field. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country. |
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Baker, Addison E.Addison E. Baker † | Army Air Forces | Lieutenant Colonel | over Ploiești, Romania (Operation Tidal Wave) | August 1, 1943 | For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy on August 1, 1943. On this date he led his command, the 93d Heavy Bombardment Group, on a daring low-level attack against enemy oil refineries and installations at Ploiești, Romania. |
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Baker, Thomas A.Thomas A. Baker † | Army | Private | Saipan, Mariana Islands | June 19, 1944 – July 7, 1944 | On Saipan in the Marianas Islands, he advanced ahead of his unit with a bazooka and destroyed a Japanese emplacement which was firing on his company. Several days later, he single-handedly attacked and killed two groups of Japanese soldiers. On July 7, Baker's position came under attack by a large Japanese force. Although seriously wounded early in the attack, he refused to be evacuated and continued to fight in the close-range battle until running out of ammunition. When a comrade was wounded while trying to carry him to safety, Baker insisted that he be left behind. At his request, his comrades left him propped against a tree and gave him a pistol, which had eight bullets remaining. When American forces retook the position, they found the pistol, now empty, and eight dead Japanese soldiers around Baker's body. |
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Baker, Vernon J.Vernon J. Baker | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Viareggio, Italy | April 5, 1945 – April 6, 1945 | Demonstrated outstanding courage and leadership in destroying enemy installations, personnel and equipment during his company's attack against a strongly entrenched enemy in mountainous terrain. One of seven African American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Barfoot, Van T.Van T. Barfoot | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Carano, Italy | May 23, 1944 | For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty on 23 May 1944, near Carano, Italy |
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Barrett, Carlton W.Carlton W. Barrett | Army | Private | near St. Laurent-sur-Mer, France | June 6, 1944 | Joined the United States Army in Albany, New York, he was a member of, 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. Barrett was one of four Medal of Honor recipients on D-Day, June 6, 1944. |
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Basilone, JohnJohn Basilone | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Lunga area, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands | October 24, 1942 – October 25, 1942 | On the night of October 24–25, 1942 his unit engaged the Japanese in the Lunga area when their position came under attack by a regiment of approximately 3,000 soldiers. The Japanese forces began a frontal attack using machine guns, grenades and mortars against the American heavy machine guns. Basilone commanded two sections of machine guns that fought for the next 48 hours until only Basilone and two other men were still able to continue fighting. Basilone moved an extra gun into position and maintained continual fire against the incoming Japanese forces. He repaired another machine-gun and personally manned it, holding the defensive line until replacements arrived. With the continuous fighting, ammunition became critically low and supply lines were cut off. Basilone fought through hostile lines and returned with urgently needed ammunition for his gunners. He was killed on Iwo Jima on February 19, 1945. He was the first Enlisted Marine to receive The Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, and The Navy Cross. |
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Bauer, Harold W.Harold W. Bauer † | Marine Corps | Lieutenant Colonel | South Pacific area | May 10, 1942 – November 14, 1942 | For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous courage as Squadron Commander of Marine Fighting Squadron TWO TWELVE in the South Pacific Area during the period May 10 to November 14, 1942. |
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Bausell, Lewis K.Lewis K. Bausell † | Marine Corps | Corporal | Peleliu Island, Palau Group | September 15, 1944 | During combat at Peleliu, he covered an exploding Japanese hand grenade in order to protect his comrades, and died of his wounds three days later. Bausell was the only enlisted Marine from the Nation's capital, Washington, D.C. to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions during World War II. |
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Beaudoin, Raymond O.Raymond O. Beaudoin † | Army | First Lieutenant | Hamelin, Germany | April 6, 1945 | By his intrepidity, great fighting skill, and supreme devotion to his responsibility for the well-being of his platoon, 1st Lt. Beaudoin single-handedly accomplished a mission that enabled a messenger to secure help which saved the stricken unit and made possible the decisive defeat of the German forces. |
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Bell, Bernard P.Bernard P. Bell | Army | Technical Sergeant | Mittelwihr, France | December 18, 1944 | By his intrepidity and bold, aggressive leadership, T/Sgt. Bell enabled his 8-man squad to drive back approximately 150 of the enemy, killing at least 87 and capturing 42. Personally, he killed more than 20 and captured 33 prisoners. |
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Bender, StanleyStanley Bender | Army | Staff Sergeant | near La Lande, France | August 17, 1944 | He had sparked and led the assault company in an attack which overwhelmed the enemy, destroying a roadblock, taking a town, seizing intact 3 bridges over the Maravenne River, and capturing commanding terrain which dominated the area. |
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Benjamin, Jr., GeorgeGeorge Benjamin, Jr. † | Army | Private First Class | Leyte, Philippines | December 21, 1944 | He was severely wounded while leading an assault against a strongly defended Japanese position on the island of Leyte. After being evacuated to an aid station, he conveyed valuable information regarding the disposition of the Japanese emplacement to his superiors. |
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Bennett, Edward A.Edward A. Bennett | Army | Corporal | Heckhuscheid, Germany | February 1, 1945 | The fearless initiative, stalwart combat ability, and outstanding gallantry of Cpl. Bennett eliminated the enemy fire which was decimating his company's ranks and made it possible for the Americans to sweep all resistance from the town. |
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Bennion, Mervyn S.Mervyn S. Bennion † | Navy | Captain | USS West Virginia (BB-48), Pearl Harbor | December 7, 1941 | While mortally wounded, he remained in command of his ship. For conspicuous devotion to duty, extraordinary courage, and complete disregard of his own life, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. |
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Berry, Charles J.Charles J. Berry † | Marine Corps | Corporal | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 3, 1945 | He landed on Iwo Jima on D-Day, February 19, 1945, and was killed in action on March 3, 1945, during the action which earned him the Medal of Honor. |
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Bertoldo, Vito R.Vito R. Bertoldo | Army | Master Sergeant | Hatten, France | January 9, 1945 – January 10, 1945 | In Hatten, France, he manned a machine gun in defense of a command post being attacked by a numerically superior German force. When evacuation became necessary, he voluntarily stayed behind to cover the withdrawal. The next morning he moved to another command post, and again defended it against a continued assault by strong German forces and voluntarily covered the withdrawal of friendly forces when the post was abandoned. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor one year later, on January 10, 1946. |
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Beyer, Arthur O.Arthur O. Beyer | Army | Corporal | near Arloncourt, Belgium | January 15, 1945 | Near Arloncourt, Belgium, he used hand grenades and his carbine to single-handedly destroy two German machine gun positions before working his way through a honey-combed series of enemy foxholes—killing and capturing German soldiers as he went. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry Truman seven months later, on August 30, 1945. |
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Bianchi, Willibald C.Willibald C. Bianchi † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Bagac, Bataan Province, Philippines | February 3, 1942 | After the action near Bagac in the Bataan Province, Bianchi was among the troops captured by the Japanese at the fall of Bataan, on April 9, 1942. He was part of the Bataan "Death March," and was imprisoned in several Japanese prisoner of war camps, enduring horrible conditions. He was known for his compassion and efforts to better the lot of his fellow prisoners by bartering with their captors for extra food and medicine. On January 9, 1945, while imprisoned in an unmarked Japanese prison ship, Bianchi was killed instantly when an American plane, unaware that the ship contained American prisoners, dropped a 1,000-pound bomb in the cargo hold. |
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Biddle, Melvin E.Melvin E. Biddle | Army | Private First Class | near Soy, Belgium | December 23, 1944 – December 24, 1944 | When presenting the medal to Biddle, Truman whispered "People don't believe me when I tell them that I'd rather have one of these than be President." Biddle was decorated with 17 other soldiers that served in the Eastern Theater of Operations. |
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Bigelow, Elmer C.Elmer C. Bigelow † | Navy | Watertender First Class | USS Fletcher, off Corregidor Island, Philippines | February 14, 1945 | While assisting minesweeping operations prior to landings on Manila Bay's Corregidor Island, Fletcher was hit by an enemy shell penetrated the No. 1 gun magazine, igniting several powder cases. Bigelow picked up a pair of fire extinguishers and rushed below in a resolute attempt to quell the raging flames. Refusing to waste the precious time required to don rescue-breathing apparatus, Bigelow plunged through the blinding smoke billowing out of the magazine hatch and dropped into the blazing compartment. Despite the acrid, burning powder smoke which seared his lungs, he succeeded in quickly extinguishing the fires and in cooling the cases and bulkheads, thereby preventing further damage to the ship. However Bigelow was badly injured and succumbed to his injuries the following day. |
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Bjorklund, Arnold L.Arnold L. Bjorklund | Army | First Lieutenant | near Altavilla, Italy | September 13, 1943 | Near Altavilla, Italy, he single-handedly attacked and destroyed two German machine gun emplacements and a mortar position. |
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Bloch, Orville E.Orville E. Bloch | Army | First Lieutenant | near Firenzuola, Italy | September 22, 1944 | Near Firenzuola, Italy, he led three soldiers in an attack on enemy positions which resulted in the capture of nineteen prisoners and the silencing of five machine gun nests. |
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Bolden, Paul L.Paul L. Bolden | Army | Staff Sergeant | Petit-Coo, Belgium | December 23, 1944 | While his comrade provided covering fire from across the street, Bolden tossed grenades through a window, rushed to the door, and began firing. Wounded by the greatly superior number of German soldiers inside, he retreated from the house. Realizing that the Germans would not surrender, he returned to the house despite his serious wounds and killed the remaining soldiers. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor eight months later, on August 30, 1945. |
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Bolton, Cecil H.Cecil H. Bolton | Army | First Lieutenant | Mark River, Holland | November 2, 1944 | |
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Bong, Richard I.Richard I. Bong | Army Air Forces | Major | over Borneo and Leyte | October 10, 1944 – November 15, 1944 | Fighter pilot in the Pacific theater shot down at least 40 Japanese aircraft, making him America's top ace. |
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Bonnyman, Jr., AlexanderAlexander Bonnyman, Jr. † | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Tarawa, Gilbert Islands | November 20, 1943 – November 22, 1943 | |
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Booker, Robert D.Robert D. Booker † | Army | Private | near Fondouk, Tunisia | April 9, 1943 | |
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Bordelon, William J.William J. Bordelon † | Marine Corps | Staff Sergeant | Tarawa, Gilbert Islands | November 20, 1943 | |
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Boyce, Jr., George W. G.George W. G. Boyce, Jr. † | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Afua, New Guinea | July 23, 1944 | |
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Boyington, PappyPappy Boyington | Marine Corps | Major | Central Solomons area | September 12, 1943 – January 3, 1944 | Fighter pilot with 26 victories. |
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Briles, Herschel F.Herschel F. Briles | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Scherpenseel, Germany | November 20, 1944 | With a comrade at his side, Herschel left his vehicle and rescued 2 critically wounded soldiers from a burning destroyer and extinguished the fire, which had been hit by an artillery shell near Scherpenseel, Germany, on 20 November 1944. The next morning, he forced 55 Germans to surrender, armed with only a machine gun, allowing fellow Americans to pass through the junction the Nazis occupied. Later that day, another destroyer was hit by a concealed enemy tank, where he again rescued 2 allies from the wreckage with the help of a fellow soldier. |
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Britt, Maurice L.Maurice L. Britt | Army | First Lieutenant | North of Mignano, Italy | November 10, 1943 | Played football for the Detroit Lions, later Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas. |
Brostrom, Leonard C.Leonard C. Brostrom † | Army | Private First Class | near Dagami, Leyte, Philippines | October 28, 1944 | ||
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Brown, Bobbie E.Bobbie E. Brown | Army | Captain | Crucifix Hill, Aachen, Germany | October 8, 1944 | |
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Bulkeley, John D.John D. Bulkeley | Navy | Lieutenant Commander | Philippine waters | December 7, 1941 – April 10, 1942 | |
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Burke, FrankFrank Burke | Army | First Lieutenant | Nuremberg, Germany | April 17, 1945 | Also known as Francis X. Burke. |
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Burr, Elmer J.Elmer J. Burr † | Army | First Sergeant | Buna, New Guinea | December 24, 1942 | |
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Burr, Herbert H.Herbert H. Burr | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Dorrmoschel, Germany | March 19, 1945 | |
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Burt, James M.James M. Burt | Army | Captain | near Wurselen, Germany | October 13, 1944 | |
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Bush, Richard E.Richard E. Bush | Marine Corps | Corporal | Mount Yaedake on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands | April 16, 1945 | |
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Bush, Robert E.Robert E. Bush | Navy | Hospital Apprentice First Class | Okinawa Jima, Ryukyu Islands | May 2, 1945 | Hospital Corpsman serving with Marines. |
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Butts, John E.John E. Butts † | Army | Second Lieutenant | Normandy, France | June 14, 1944, June 16, 1944, and June 23, 1944 | Butts served with the U.S. Army, E Company, 60th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry Division during the invasion of France in 1944. He was severely wounded on three occasions and continued leading his men until June 23 when he was killed. He was 21 years of age. |
C
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Caddy, William R.William R. Caddy † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 3, 1945 | |
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Callaghan, Daniel J.Daniel J. Callaghan † | Navy | Rear Admiral | Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, Savo Island | November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 | |
Calugas, JoseJose Calugas | Army | Sergeant | Culis, Bataan Province, Philippines | January 16, 1942 | ||
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Cannon, George H.George H. Cannon † | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Sand Island, Midway Islands | December 7, 1941 | |
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Cano, PedroPedro Cano † | Army | Private | Schevenhütte, Germany | December 2, 1944 – December 3, 1944 | Repeatedly risked his life destroying enemy machine gun positions using rockets and grenades, in support of his own and adjacent infantry company |
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Carey, Alvin P.Alvin P. Carey † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Plougastel, Brittany, France | August 23, 1944 | Mortally wounded while single-handedly attacking an enemy pillbox |
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Carey, Jr., Charles F.Charles F. Carey, Jr. † | Army | Technical Sergeant | Rimling, France | January 8, 1945 – January 9, 1945 | |
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Carr, ChrisChris Carr | Army | Sergeant | near Guignola, Italy | October 1, 1944 – October 2, 1944 | |
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Carswell, Jr., Horace S.Horace S. Carswell, Jr. † | Army Air Forces | Major | over the South China Sea | October 26, 1944 | Assigned to the 14th USAAF in China, Carswell was flying a B-24 Liberator on the night of October 26, 1944, on a single-aircraft mission against a Japanese convoy in the South China Sea. He elected to make a second low-level run over a thoroughly alerted convoy and scored two direct hits on a large tanker. His co-pilot was wounded, and his aircraft had two engines knocked out, a third damaged, the hydraulic system damaged, and a fuel tank punctured. He managed to gain enough altitude to reach land, where he ordered the crew to bail out. Eight did, but the bombardier's parachute was too badly damaged to use. Instead of bailing out, Carswell stayed with the bombardier and the wounded co-pilot, and attempted a crash landing. The badly damaged aircraft crashed against a mountain, and all three aboard were killed. |
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Carter, Jr., Edward A.Edward A. Carter, Jr. † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Speyer, Germany | March 23, 1945 | One of seven African American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. Carter served with an armored infantry unit of the Seventh Army Infantry Company Number 1 (Provisional), a unit manned by volunteers and used to support depleted divisions following the Battle of the Bulge. On March 23, 1945, Carter engaged the enemy when the tank he was riding on was hit by bazooka fire. Forced to dismount, he led three soldiers across an open field. In the process, two of the men were killed and the other seriously wounded. Carter continued alone and was wounded five times before being forced to take cover. Eight German soldiers tried to capture him, but he killed six of them and captured the remaining two as prisoners. |
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Casamento, AnthonyAnthony Casamento | Marine Corps | Corporal | Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands | November 1, 1942 | |
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Castle, Frederick W.Frederick W. Castle † | Army Air Forces | Brigadier General | Germany | December 24, 1944 | |
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Chambers, Justice M.Justice M. Chambers | Marine Corps | Lieutenant Colonel | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 19, 1945 – February 22, 1945 | |
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Cheli, RalphRalph Cheli † | Army Air Forces | Major | near Wewak, New Guinea | August 18, 1943 | |
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Childers, ErnestErnest Childers | Army | Second Lieutenant | Oliveto, Italy | September 22, 1943 | |
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Choate, Clyde L.Clyde L. Choate | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Bruyeres, France | October 25, 1944 | |
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Christensen, Dale E.Dale E. Christensen † | Army | Second Lieutenant | Driniumor River, New Guinea | July 16, 1944 – July 19, 1944 | |
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Christian, Herbert F.Herbert F. Christian † | Army | Private | near Valmontone, Italy | June 2, 1944 – June 3, 1944 | |
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Cicchetti, Joseph J.Joseph J. Cicchetti † | Army | Private First Class | South Manila, Luzon, Philippines | February 9, 1945 | |
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Clark, Francis J.Francis J. Clark | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Kalborn, Luxembourg and near Sevenig, Germany | September 12, 1944 and September 17, 1944 | |
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Colalillo, MikeMike Colalillo | Army | Private First Class | near Untergriesheim, Germany | April 7, 1945 | |
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Cole, Darrell S.Darrell S. Cole † | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 19, 1945 | Namesake of USS Cole (DDG-67). |
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Cole, Robert G.Robert G. Cole † | Army | Lieutenant Colonel | near Carentan, France | June 11, 1944 | For leading a charge across a field swept by German machineguns and artillery. |
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Connor, James P.James P. Connor | Army | Sergeant | Cape Cavalaire, southern France | August 15, 1944 | |
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Cooley, Raymond H.Raymond H. Cooley | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Lumboy, Luzon, Philippines | February 24, 1945 | |
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Coolidge, Charles H.Charles H. Coolidge | Army | Technical Sergeant | East of Belmont sur Buttant, France | October 24, 1944 – October 27, 1944 | |
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Courtney, Jr., Henry A.Henry A. Courtney, Jr. † | Marine Corps | Major | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands | May 14, 1945 – May 15, 1945 | |
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Cowan, Richard E.Richard E. Cowan † | Army | Private First Class | near Krinkelter Wald, Belgium | December 17, 1944 | |
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Craft, Clarence B.Clarence B. Craft | Army | Private First Class | Hen Hill, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands | May 31, 1945 | |
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Craig, RobertRobert Craig † | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Favoratta, Sicily | July 11, 1943 | Single-handedly destroyed an Italian machinegun nest before laying down covering fire for his entire platoon. |
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Crain, Morris E.Morris E. Crain † | Army | Technical Sergeant | Haguenau, France | March 13, 1945 | When a house defended by some of his men came under intense attack from German soldiers and a tank, he ordered the men to withdraw while he held the position alone. He was killed when the house was destroyed by German fire. |
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Craw, Demas T.Demas T. Craw † | Army Air Forces | Colonel | near Port Lyautey, French Morocco | November 8, 1942 | |
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Crawford, William J.William J. Crawford | Army | Private | near Altavilla, Italy | September 13, 1943 | Listed as MIA, Crawford's MoH was originally presented posthumously to Crawford's father. Crawford was later discovered to be a PoW. President Reagan re-presented Crawford's MoH to him at the US Air Force Academy Class of 1984 graduation. |
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Crews, John R.John R. Crews | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Lobenbacherhof, Germany | April 8, 1945 | |
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Cromwell, John P.John P. Cromwell † | Navy | Captain | USS Sculpin, off Truk Island | November 19, 1943 | Stayed aboard a sinking submarine to prevent military secrets he possessed from falling into enemy hands. |
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Currey, Francis S.Francis S. Currey | Army | Sergeant | Malmedy, Belgium | December 21, 1944 | Rescued several men and women while destroying a building with enemy soldiers. |
D
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Dahlgren, Edward C.Edward C. Dahlgren | Army | Sergeant | Oberhoffen, France | February 11, 1945 | |
Dalessondro, Peter J.Peter J. Dalessondro | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Kalterherberg, Germany | December 22, 1944 | ||
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Daly, Michael J.Michael J. Daly | Army | First Lieutenant | Nuremberg, Germany | April 18, 1945 | |
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Damato, Anthony P.Anthony P. Damato † | Marine Corps | Corporal | Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands | February 19, 1944 – February 20, 1944 | For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with an assault company of the Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, Fifth Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Eniwetok Atoll Marshall Islands, on the night of February 19,-20, 1944. Highly vulnerable to sudden attack by small, fanatical groups of Japanese still at large despite the efficient and determined efforts of our forces to clear the area, Corporal Damato lay with two comrades in a large foxhole in his company's defense perimeter which had been dangerously thinned by the forced withdrawal of nearly half of the available men. When one of the enemy approached the foxhole undetected and threw in a hand grenade, Corporal Damato desperately groped for it in the darkness. Realizing the imminent peril to all three and fully aware of the consequences of his act, he unhesitatingly flung himself on the grenade and, although instantly killed as his body absorbed the explosion, saved the lives of his two companions. Corporal Damato's splendid initiative, fearless conduct and valiant sacrifice reflect great upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his comrades. |
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David, Albert L.Albert L. David † | Navy | Lieutenant, Junior Grade | off French West Africa | June 4, 1944 | For leading a boarding party that successfully captured the German submarine U-505. |
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Davila, Rudolph B.Rudolph B. Davila | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Artena, Italy | May 28, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Davis, Charles W.Charles W. Davis | Army | Captain | Guadalcanal Island | January 12, 1943 | |
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Davis, George F.George F. Davis † | Navy | Commander | USS Walke, Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippines | January 6, 1945 | |
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Day, James L.James L. Day | Marine Corps | Corporal | Okinawa, Ryukya Islands | May 14, 1945 – May 17, 1945 | |
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Dealey, Samuel D.Samuel D. Dealey † | Navy | Commander | USS Harder, near Philippines | Jun 6, 1944 – Jun 10, 1944 | |
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DeBlanc, Jefferson J.Jefferson J. DeBlanc | Marine Corps | Captain | off Kolombangara Island, Solomons group | January 31, 1943 | |
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DeFranzo, Arthur F.Arthur F. DeFranzo † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Vaubadon, France | June 10, 1944 | |
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DeGlopper, Charles N.Charles N. DeGlopper † | Army | Private First Class | Merderet River at la Fiere, France | June 9, 1944 | |
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Deleau, Jr., EmileEmile Deleau, Jr. † | Army | Sergeant | Oberhoffen, France | February 1, 1945 – February 2, 1945 | |
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Dervishian, Ernest H.Ernest H. Dervishian | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Cisterna, Italy | May 23, 1944 | |
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Diamond, James H.James H. Diamond † | Army | Private First Class | Mintal, Mindanao, Philippines | May 8, 1945 – May 14, 1945 | |
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Dietz, Robert H.Robert H. Dietz † | Army | Staff Sergeant | Kirchain, Germany | March 29, 1945 | |
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Doolittle, JimmyJimmy Doolittle | Army Air Forces | Lieutenant Colonel | over Japan | April 18, 1942 | For leading the Doolittle Raid over the Japanese mainland. |
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Doss, Desmond T.Desmond T. Doss | Army | Private First Class | near Urasoe Mura, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands | April 29, 1945 – May 21, 1945 | The first conscientious objector to receive a Medal of Honor, for saving many lives while acting as a medic. During the Battle of Okinawa, Pfc. Doss single-handedly entered enemy line of fire to retrieve approximately 75 casualties, carrying them one-by-one down a 400-foot escarpment. He later, on separate occasions, rescued a man 200 yards on the same escarpment, treated 4 men within 8 yards of an enemy's cave, treated and administered plasma to an injured artillery officer while continually under fire, and 25 feet from an enemy position, treated and carried another soldier 100 feet to safety. Finally, while he was giving aid to injured soldiers under fire, he was himself inured in the legs by a grenade. He tended his own wounds while he waited for his fellow soldiers to bring a litter. When they arrived, he saw another soldier injured worse and directed the bearers to rescue him first. While waiting for their return, he was shot in the arm. He strapped a gun stock to his arm as splint and crawled the 300 yards of rough terrain to the aid station. |
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Drowley, Jesse R.Jesse R. Drowley | Army | Staff Sergeant | Bougainville, Solomon Islands | January 30, 1944 | |
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Dunham, Russell E.Russell E. Dunham | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Kayserberg, France | January 8, 1945 | |
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Dunlap, Robert H.Robert H. Dunlap | Marine Corps | Captain | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 20, 1945 – February 21, 1945 | |
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Dutko, John W.John W. Dutko † | Army | Private First Class | near Ponte Rotto, Italy | May 23, 1944 | |
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Dyess, Aquilla J.Aquilla J. Dyess † | Marine Corps | Lieutenant Colonel | Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands | February 1, 1944 – February 2, 1944 |
E
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Edson, Merritt A.Merritt A. Edson | Marine Corps | Colonel | Solomon Islands | September 13, 1942 – September 14, 1942 | |
Ehlers, Walter D.Walter D. Ehlers | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Goville, France | June 9, 1944 – June 10, 1944 | ||
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Elrod, Henry T.Henry T. Elrod † | Marine Corps | Captain | Wake Island | December 8, 1941 – December 23, 1941 | |
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Endl, Gerald L.Gerald L. Endl † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Anamo, New Guinea | July 11, 1944 | |
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Epperson, Harold G.Harold G. Epperson † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Island of Saipan, Marianas | June 25, 1944 | |
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Erwin, Henry E.Henry E. Erwin | Army Air Forces | Staff Sergeant | Koriyama, Japan | April 12, 1945 | |
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Eubanks, Ray E.Ray E. Eubanks † | Army | Sergeant | Noemfoor Island, Dutch New Guinea | July 23, 1944 | |
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Evans, Ernest E.Ernest E. Evans † | Navy | Commander | USS Johnston, off Samar | October 25, 1944 | |
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Everhart, Forrest E.Forrest E. Everhart | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Kerling, France | November 12, 1944 |
F
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Fardy, John P.John P. Fardy † | Marine Corps | Corporal | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands | May 7, 1945 | |
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Femoyer, Robert E.Robert E. Femoyer † | Army Air Forces | Second Lieutenant | over Merseburg, Germany | November 2, 1944 | |
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Fields, James H.James H. Fields | Army | First Lieutenant | Rechicourt, France | September 27, 1944 | |
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Finn, John W.John W. Finn | Navy | Chief Aviation Ordnanceman | Naval Air Station, Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | Stationed at NAS Kaneohe Bay, HI, he demonstrated extraordinary valor during the Japanese air assault on Oahu. Finn manned an exposed 50-caliber machine gun stand and returned significant fire upon enemy aircraft. Despite numerous painful wounds, he remained at his post and inflicted heavy damage upon the enemy until ordered to seek medical attention. CPO Finn was the first to receive the Medal of Honor for action during World War II. |
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Fisher, Almond E.Almond E. Fisher | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Grammont, France | September 12, 1944 – September 13, 1944 | |
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Flaherty, Francis C.Francis C. Flaherty † | Navy | Ensign | Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Fleming, Richard E.Richard E. Fleming † | Marine Corps | Captain | Midway Atoll | June 4, 1942 – June 5, 1942 | |
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Fluckey, Eugene B.Eugene B. Fluckey | Navy | Commander | USS Barb, along east coast of China | December 19, 1944 – February 15, 1945 | |
Foss, Joseph J.Joseph J. Foss | Marine Corps | Captain | over Guadalcanal | October 9, 1942 – November 19, 1942 and January 1943 | For shooting down 26 aircraft as leader of the Flying Circus. Later became a Governor of South Dakota. First commissioner of the American Football League. | |
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Foster, William A.William A. Foster † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands | May 2, 1945 | |
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Fournier, William G.William G. Fournier † | Army | Sergeant | Mount Austen, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands | January 10, 1943 | |
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Fowler, Thomas W.Thomas W. Fowler † | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Carano, Italy | May 23, 1944 | |
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Fox, John R.John R. Fox † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Sommocolonia, Italy | December 26, 1944 | One of seven African American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. A forward observer with the 366th Infantry Regiment of the segregated 92nd Infantry Division, Fox deliberately ordered his own artillery to fire on top of his position to repel a German advance. When Fox was told that he would not survive the barrage, he replied, “Fire it!” His action permitted U.S. forces, who had been forced to withdraw, to organize a counterattack and regain control of the village. |
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Fryar, Elmer E.Elmer E. Fryar † | Army | Private | Leyte, Philippines | December 8, 1944 | |
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Funk, Jr., Leonard A.Leonard A. Funk, Jr. | Army | First Sergeant | Holzheim, Belgium | January 29, 1945 | |
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Fuqua, Samuel G.Samuel G. Fuqua | Navy | Lieutenant Commander | Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | For heroism aboard the USS Arizona. |
G
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Galer, Robert E.Robert E. Galer | Marine Corps | Major | Solomon Islands area | Aug 1942 – Sep 1942 | For service in the Solomon Islands as the leader of a Marine fighter squadron. |
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Galt, William W.William W. Galt † | Army | Captain | Villa Crocetta, Italy | May 29, 1944 | For his leadership and courage in directing an assault against an entrenched force that had repulsed two previous attacks. |
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Gammon, Archer T.Archer T. Gammon † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Bastogne, Belgium | January 11, 1945 | While under fire from a German machine gun and tank, counterattacked the German force and forced them to retreat with grenade and small arms fire. |
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Gandara, JoeJoe Gandara † | Army | Private | Amfreville, France | June 9, 1944 | Advanced voluntarily and alone toward an enemy position and destroyed three hostile machine guns before being fatally wounded. |
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Garcia, MarcarioMarcario Garcia | Army | Private | near Grosshau, Germany | November 27, 1944 | After realizing that his company could not advance because it was pinned down by enemy machine gun fire, on his own initiative, went alone and destroyed 2 enemy emplacements and captured 4 prisoners. Despite being wounded himself, he continued to fight on with his unit until the objective was taken. |
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Garman, Harold A.Harold A. Garman | Army | Private | near Montereau, France | August 25, 1944 | When a boat loaded with wounded came under fire from a German machine gun on the opposite river bank, he dove into the river braving enemy machine gun fire to tow the boat to safety. |
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Gary, Donald A.Donald A. Gary | Navy | Lieutenant, Junior Grade | Japanese home islands near Kobe, Japan | March 19, 1945 | For braving hazardous conditions on the USS Franklin when it was hit by enemy fire to save sailors trapped inside the vessel's hull. |
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Gerstung, Robert E.Robert E. Gerstung | Army | Technical Sergeant | Siegfried Line near Berg, Germany | December 19, 1944 | |
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Gibson, Eric G.Eric G. Gibson † | Army | Technician Fifth Grade | near Isola Bella, Italy | January 28, 1944 | |
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Gilmore, Howard W.Howard W. Gilmore † | Navy | Commander | USS Growler, southwest Pacific | January 10, 1943 – February 7, 1943 | While wounded on the bridge and unable to get below in time, gave the order for the submarine to crash dive to avoid an imminent attack, sacrificing himself to save the ship and the crew. |
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Gonsalves, HaroldHarold Gonsalves † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Chain | April 15, 1945 | While laying telephone lines for communication with the artillery battalion in Okinawa, he saved 2 other marines after flinging himself atop of a Japanese grenade and taking the full brunt of the resulting explosion allowing the other 2 men to complete the mission. |
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Gonzales, David M.David M. Gonzales † | Army | Private First Class | Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines | April 25, 1945 | |
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Gordon, Nathan G.Nathan G. Gordon | Navy | Lieutenant, Junior Grade | Bismarck Sea | February 15, 1944 | Later Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas |
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Gott, Donald J.Donald J. Gott † | Army Air Forces | First Lieutenant | Saarbrücken, Germany | November 9, 1944 | Piloted a B-17 aircraft on a bombing run on Saarbrücken. Even though his plane was severely damaged and set ablaze by anti-aircraft fire which wounded the engineer and the radio operator, Gott and co-pilot William E. Metzger, Jr. successfully dropped their bombs on the target and flew the plane to friendly territory. After having their crew bail out except for the unconscious radio operator, Gott and Metzger attempted to crashland the plane to save their helpless comrade. The plane exploded, killing the three remaining crewmembers on board. |
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Grabiarz, William J.William J. Grabiarz † | Army | Private First Class | Manila, Luzon, Philippines | February 23, 1945 | For using his body to shield a wounded officer from hostile fire. |
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Gray, Ross F.Ross F. Gray † | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 21, 1945 | |
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Gregg, Stephen R.Stephen R. Gregg | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Montelimar, France | August 27, 1944 | |
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Gruennert, Kenneth E.Kenneth E. Gruennert † | Army | Sergeant | near Buna, New Guinea | December 24, 1942 | |
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Gurke, HenryHenry Gurke † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands Archipelago | November 9, 1943 | Fell on a grenade that landed in his foxhole, saving the man with him |
H
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Hajiro, Barney F.Barney F. Hajiro | Army | Private | near Bruyeres and Biffontaine, eastern France | October 19, 1944, October 22, 1944, and October 29, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Hall, George J.George J. Hall | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Anzio, Italy | May 23, 1944 | Single-handedly captured two German machine gun positions and was severely wounded while attempting to take a third, resulting in him having to self-amputate his right leg. |
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Hall, LewisLewis Hall † | Army | Technician Fifth Grade | Mount Austen, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands | January 10, 1943 | During a Japanese attack he refused an order to withdraw after many men in his unit had been killed or wounded and, with a fellow soldier, stayed behind to man a machine gun. |
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Hall, William E.William E. Hall | Navy | Lieutenant, Junior Grade | Coral Sea | May 7, 1942 – May 8, 1942 | Dive bombed a Japanese aircraft carrier, contributing greatly to its destruction. The next day, he attacked a superior number of Japanese planes and shot down three. Although his craft was damaged and he was seriously wounded in this attack, he managed to land safely. |
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Hallman, Sherwood H.Sherwood H. Hallman † | Army | Staff Sergeant | Brest, Brittany, France | September 13, 1944 | |
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Halyburton, Jr., William D.William D. Halyburton, Jr. † | Navy | Pharmacist's Mate Second Class | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Chain | May 10, 1945 | Killed shielding a wounded Marine with his body while administering aid. |
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Hamilton, Pierpont M.Pierpont M. Hamilton | Army Air Forces | Major | near Port Lyautey, French Morocco | November 8, 1942 | |
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Hammerberg, Owen F. P.Owen F. P. Hammerberg † | Navy | Boatswain's Mate Second Class | West Loch, Pearl Harbor | February 17, 1945 | Rescued two other divers trapped beneath a sunken LST before he himself became trapped and perished. |
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Hansen, Dale M.Dale M. Hansen † | Marine Corps | Private | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Chain | May 7, 1945 | |
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Hanson, Robert M.Robert M. Hanson † | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Bougainville Island and New Britain Island | November 1, 1943 and January 24, 1944 | |
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Harmon, Roy W.Roy W. Harmon † | Army | Sergeant | near Casaglia, Italy | July 12, 1944 | |
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Harr, Harry R.Harry R. Harr † | Army | Corporal | near Maglamin, Mindanao, Philippines | June 5, 1945 | |
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Harrell, William G.William G. Harrell | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 3, 1945 | |
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Harris, James L.James L. Harris † | Army | Second Lieutenant | Vagney, France | October 7, 1944 | |
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Hasemoto, MikioMikio Hasemoto † | Army | Private | near Cerasuolo, Italy | November 29, 1943 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Hastings, Joe R.Joe R. Hastings † | Army | Private First Class | Drabenderhohe, Germany | April 12, 1945 | |
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Hauge, Jr., Louis J.Louis J. Hauge, Jr. † | Marine Corps | Corporal | Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain | May 14, 1945 | |
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Hawk, John D.John D. Hawk | Army | Sergeant | near Chambois, France | August 20, 1944 | |
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Hawkins, William D.William D. Hawkins † | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Tarawa, Gilbert Islands | November 20, 1943 – November 21, 1943 | |
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Hawks, Lloyd C.Lloyd C. Hawks | Army | Private First Class | near Carano, Italy | January 30, 1944 | |
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Hayashi, JoeJoe Hayashi † | Army | Private | near Tendola, Italy | April 20, 1945 and April 22, 1945 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Hayashi, ShizuyaShizuya Hayashi | Army | Private | near Cerasuolo, Italy | November 29, 1943 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Hedrick, Clinton M.Clinton M. Hedrick † | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Lembeck, Germany | March 27, 1945 – March 28, 1945 | |
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Hendrix, James R.James R. Hendrix | Army | Private | near Assenois, Belgium | December 26, 1944 | |
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Henry, Robert T.Robert T. Henry † | Army | Private | Luchem, Germany | December 3, 1944 | |
Herrera, Silvestre S.Silvestre S. Herrera | Army | Private First Class | near Mertzwiller, France | March 15, 1945 | ||
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Herring, Rufus G.Rufus G. Herring | Navy | Lieutenant, Junior Grade | as commanding officer aboard a landing craft, USS LCI (G) 449, Iwo Jima | February 17, 1945 | |
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Hill, Edwin J.Edwin J. Hill † | Navy | Chief Boatswain | Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Horner, Freeman V.Freeman V. Horner | Army | Staff Sergeant | Wurselen, Germany | November 16, 1944 | |
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Howard, James H.James H. Howard | Army Air Forces | Major | over Oschersleben, Germany | January 11, 1944 | Only fighter pilot in the European Theater of Operations in World War II to be awarded the Medal of Honor |
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Huff, Paul B.Paul B. Huff | Army | Corporal | near Carano, Italy | February 8, 1944 | |
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Hughes, Lloyd HerbertLloyd Herbert Hughes † | Army Air Forces | Second Lieutenant | Ploiești Raid, Romania | August 1, 1943 | |
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Hutchins, Johnnie D.Johnnie D. Hutchins † | Navy | Seaman First Class | aboard a landing ship, USS LST 473, off Lae, New Guinea | September 4, 1943 |
I
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Inouye, Daniel K.Daniel K. Inouye | Army | Second Lieutenant | near San Terenzo, Italy | April 21, 1945 | Later became a U.S. Senator representing Hawaii. Served as President pro tempore of the United States Senate and was third in line to the Presidency of the United States; highest ranking Asian American politician in U.S. history. One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
J
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Jachman, Isadore S.Isadore S. Jachman † | Army | Staff Sergeant | Flamierge, Belgium | January 4, 1945 | |
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Jackson, Arthur J.Arthur J. Jackson | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Island of Peleliu, Palau group | September 18, 1944 | |
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Jacobson, Douglas T.Douglas T. Jacobson | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 26, 1945 | |
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James, Jr., Willy F.Willy F. James, Jr. † | Army | Private First Class | near Lippoldsberg, Germany | April 7, 1945 | One of seven African American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Jerstad, John L.John L. Jerstad † | Army Air Forces | Major | Ploiești Raid, Romania | August 1, 1943 | |
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Johnson, Elden H.Elden H. Johnson † | Army | Private | near Valmontone, Italy | June 3, 1944 | |
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Johnson, Leon W.Leon W. Johnson | Army Air Forces | Colonel | Ploiești Raid, Romania | August 1, 1943 | |
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Johnson, LeroyLeroy Johnson † | Army | Sergeant | near Limon, Leyte, Philippines | December 15, 1944 | |
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Johnson, Oscar G.Oscar G. Johnson | Army | Private First Class | near Scarperia, Italy | September 16, 1944 – September 18, 1944 | |
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Johnston, William J.William J. Johnston | Army | Private First Class | near Padiglione, Italy | February 17, 1944 – February 19, 1944 | |
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Jones, Herbert C.Herbert C. Jones † | Navy | Ensign | Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Julian, Joseph R.Joseph R. Julian † | Marine Corps | Platoon Sergeant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 9, 1945 |
K
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Kandle, Victor L.Victor L. Kandle † | Army | First Lieutenant | near La Forge, France | October 9, 1944 | |
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Kane, John R.John R. Kane | Army Air Forces | Colonel | Ploiești Raid, Romania | August 1, 1943 | |
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Kearby, Neel E.Neel E. Kearby | Army Air Forces | Colonel | near Wewak, New Guinea | October 11, 1943 | For facing 12 to 1 odds at low fuel against Lieutenant Colonel Teranishi's force |
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Keathley, George D.George D. Keathley † | Army | Staff Sergeant | Mt. Altuzzo, Italy | September 14, 1944 | |
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Kefurt, GusGus Kefurt † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Bennwihr, France | December 23, 1944 – December 24, 1944 | |
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Kelley, Jonah E.Jonah E. Kelley † | Army | Staff Sergeant | Kesternich, Germany | January 30, 1945 – January 31, 1945 | |
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Kelley, Ova A.Ova A. Kelley † | Army | Private | Leyte, Philippines | December 8, 1944 | |
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Kelly, Charles E.Charles E. Kelly | Army | Corporal | near Altavilla, Italy | September 13, 1943 | |
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Kelly, John D.John D. Kelly † | Army | Corporal | Fort du Roule, Cherbourg, France | June 25, 1944 | |
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Kelly, Thomas J.Thomas J. Kelly | Army | Corporal | Alemert, Germany | April 5, 1945 | |
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Keppler, Reinhardt J.Reinhardt J. Keppler † | Navy | Boatswain's Mate First Class | USS San Francisco, Solomon Islands | November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 | |
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Kerstetter, Dexter J.Dexter J. Kerstetter | Army | Private First Class | near Galiano, Luzon, Philippines | April 13, 1945 | |
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Kessler, Patrick L.Patrick L. Kessler † | Army | Private First Class | near Ponte Rotto, Italy | May 23, 1944 | |
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Kidd, Isaac C.Isaac C. Kidd † | Navy | Rear Admiral | Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Kimbro, TrumanTruman Kimbro † | Army | Technician Fourth Grade | near Rocherath, Belgium | December 19, 1944 | |
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Kiner, Harold G.Harold G. Kiner † | Army | Private | near Palenberg, Germany | October 2, 1944 | |
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Kingsley, David R.David R. Kingsley † | Army Air Forces | Second Lieutenant | Ploiești Raid, Romania | June 23, 1944 | |
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Kinser, Elbert L.Elbert L. Kinser † | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Chain | May 4, 1945 | |
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Kisters, Gerry H.Gerry H. Kisters | Army | Sergeant | near Gagliano, Sicily | July 31, 1943 | |
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Knappenberger, Alton W.Alton W. Knappenberger | Army | Private First Class | near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy | February 1, 1944 | |
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Knight, Jack L.Jack L. Knight † | Army | First Lieutenant | near LoiKang, Burma | February 2, 1945 | |
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Knight, Raymond L.Raymond L. Knight † | Army Air Forces | First Lieutenant | northern Po Valley, Italy | April 24, 1945 – April 25, 1945 | |
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Kobashigawa, YeikiYeiki Kobashigawa | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Lanuvio, Italy | June 2, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Kraus, Richard E.Richard E. Kraus † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Peleliu, Palau Islands | October 3, 1944 | |
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Krotiak, Anthony L.Anthony L. Krotiak † | Army | Private First Class | Balete Pass, Luzon, Philippines | May 8, 1945 | |
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Kuroda, Robert T.Robert T. Kuroda † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Bruyeres, France | October 20, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
L
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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La Belle, James D.James D. La Belle † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 8, 1945 | |
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Lara, Salvador J.Salvador J. Lara | Army | Staff Sergeant | Aprilia, Italy | May 27, 1944 – May 28, 1944 | Aggressively led his rifle squad in neutralizing multiple enemy strongpoints and inflicting large numbers of casualties, and resumed the attack the next day despite receiving a severe leg wound. |
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Lawley, Jr., William R.William R. Lawley, Jr. | Army Air Forces | First Lieutenant | over Europe | February 20, 1944 | |
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Laws, Robert E.Robert E. Laws | Army | Staff Sergeant | Pangasinan Province, Luzon, Philippines | January 12, 1945 | |
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Lee, Daniel W.Daniel W. Lee | Army | Second Lieutenant | Montreval, France | September 2, 1944 | |
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Leims, John H.John H. Leims | Marine Corps | Second Lieutenant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 7, 1945 | |
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Leonard, Turney W.Turney W. Leonard † | Army | First Lieutenant | Kommerscheidt, Germany | November 4, 1944 – November 6, 1944 | |
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Leonard, William F.William F. Leonard | Army | Staff Sergeant | Near St. Die, France | November 7, 1944 | Led an assault continuously swept by enemy automatic fire, killing two snipers, and, despite bullets wounds to his back, destroyed two machine guns and captured a roadblock objective. |
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Lester, Fred F.Fred F. Lester † | Navy | Hospital Apprentice First Class | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Chain | June 8, 1945 | |
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Lindsey, Darrell R.Darrell R. Lindsey † | Army Air Forces | Captain | L'Isle Adam railroad bridge over the Seine, France | August 9, 1944 | |
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Lindsey, Jake W.Jake W. Lindsey | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Hamich, Germany | November 16, 1944 | |
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Lindstrom, Floyd K.Floyd K. Lindstrom † | Army | Private First Class | near Mignano, Italy | November 11, 1943 | |
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Lloyd, Edgar H.Edgar H. Lloyd † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Pompey, France | September 14, 1944 | |
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Lobaugh, Donald R.Donald R. Lobaugh † | Army | Private | near Afua, New Guinea | July 22, 1944 | |
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Logan, James M.James M. Logan | Army | Sergeant | near Salerno, Italy | September 9, 1943 | |
Lopez, Jose M.Jose M. Lopez | Army | Sergeant | near Krinkelt, Belgium | December 17, 1944 | ||
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Lucas, Jacklyn H.Jacklyn H. Lucas | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 20, 1945 | Youngest recipient since the Civil War (turned 17 just 5 days before Iwo Jima D-Day) |
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Lummus, JackJack Lummus † | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 8, 1945 |
M
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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— |
Mabry, Jr., George L.George L. Mabry, Jr. | Army | Lieutenant Colonel | Hurtgen Forest near Schevenhütte, Germany | November 20, 1944 | |
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MacArthur, DouglasDouglas MacArthur | Army | General | Bataan Peninsula, Philippines | April 1, 1942 | With his father, Arthur MacArthur, Jr., became first father and son pair to both receive the Medal of Honor. |
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MacGillivary, Charles A.Charles A. MacGillivary | Army | Sergeant | near Woelfling, France | January 1, 1945 | Immigrant from Canada. |
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Magrath, John D.John D. Magrath † | Army | Private First Class | near Castel d'Aiano, Italy | April 14, 1945 | |
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Mann, Joe E.Joe E. Mann † | Army | Private First Class | Best, Holland | September 18, 1944 | |
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Martin, Harry L.Harry L. Martin † | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 26, 1945 | |
Martinez, Joe P.Joe P. Martinez † | Army | Private | Attu, Aleutians | May 26, 1943 | First private to earn the medal in World War II and first to earn in the Battle of Attu | |
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Mason, Leonard F.Leonard F. Mason † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Marianas Islands | July 22, 1944 | |
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Mathies, ArchibaldArchibald Mathies † | Army Air Forces | Sergeant | over Germany | February 20, 1944 | |
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Mathis, Jack W.Jack W. Mathis † | Army Air Forces | First Lieutenant | over Vegesack, Germany | March 18, 1943 | |
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Maxwell, Robert D.Robert D. Maxwell | Army | Technician Fifth Grade | near Besançon, France | September 7, 1944 | |
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May, Martin O.Martin O. May † | Army | Private First Class | legusuku-Yama, Ie Shima, Ryukyu Islands | April 19, 1945 – April 21, 1945 | Defended his machine gun position for 3 days against Japanese attacks, even when wounded, thus maintaining the American lines. Refusing to withdraw when his machine gun was disabled, he used hand grenades to fight to his death. |
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Mayfield, MelvinMelvin Mayfield | Army | Corporal | Cordillera Mountains, Luzon, Philippines | July 29, 1945 | Mayfield's actions, on July 29, 1945, were the last to earn a Medal of Honor prior to the August 15, 1945, end of hostilities in World War II – though some honorees may have been cited for their Medal after Mayfield's recognition on May 31, 1946. |
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McCall, Thomas E.Thomas E. McCall | Army | Staff Sergeant | near San Angelo, Italy | January 22, 1944 | |
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McCampbell, DavidDavid McCampbell | Navy | Commander | First and second battles of the Philippine Sea | June 19, 1944 | Top Navy flying ace. 34 kills. |
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McCandless, BruceBruce McCandless | Navy | Commander | Battle off Savo Island | November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 | |
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McCard, Robert H.Robert H. McCard † | Marine Corps | Gunnery Sergeant | Saipan, Marianas Islands | June 16, 1944 | For saving the lives of his tank crewmen. |
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McCarter, Lloyd G.Lloyd G. McCarter | Army | Private | Corregidor, Philippines | February 16, 1945 – February 19, 1945 | |
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McCarthy, Joseph J.Joseph J. McCarthy | Marine Corps | Captain | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 21, 1945 | |
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McCool, Richard M.Richard M. McCool | Navy | Lieutenant | off Okinawa | June 10, 1945 – June 11, 1945 | |
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McGaha, Charles L.Charles L. McGaha | Army | Master Sergeant | near Lupao, Luzon, Philippines | February 7, 1945 | |
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McGarity, VernonVernon McGarity | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Krinkelt, Belgium | December 16, 1944 | |
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McGee, William D.William D. McGee † | Army | Private | near Mulheim, Germany | March 18, 1945 | |
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McGill, Troy A.Troy A. McGill † | Army | Sergeant | Los Negros Islands, Admiralty Group | March 4, 1944 | |
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McGraw, Francis X.Francis X. McGraw † | Army | Private First Class | near Schevenhütte, Germany | November 19, 1944 | |
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McGuire, Jr., Thomas B.Thomas B. McGuire, Jr. † | Army Air Forces | Major | over Luzon, Philippines | December 25, 1944 – December 26, 1944 | The second leading air ace in World War II before being killed in action in January 1945. McGuire Air Force Base is named for him. |
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McKinney, John R.John R. McKinney | Army | Private | Tayabas Province, Luzon, Philippines | May 11, 1945 | |
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McTureous, Jr., Robert M.Robert M. McTureous, Jr. † | Marine Corps | Private | Okinawa, Ryukyu Chain | June 7, 1945 | |
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McVeigh, John J.John J. McVeigh † | Army | Sergeant | near Brest, France | August 29, 1944 | |
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McWhorter, William A.William A. McWhorter † | Army | Private First Class | Leyte, Philippines | December 5, 1944 | |
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Meagher, John W.John W. Meagher | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Ozato, Okinawa | June 19, 1945 | |
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Mendoza, Manuel V.Manuel V. Mendoza | Army | Master Sergeant | Mt. Battaglia, Italy | October 4, 1944 | Single-handedly broke up a German counterattack. |
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Merli, Gino J.Gino J. Merli | Army | Private First Class | near Sars la Bruyere, Belgium | September 4, 1944 – September 5, 1944 | Held off German troops overnight, even when his machine gun nest was captured. |
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Merrell, Joseph F.Joseph F. Merrell † | Army | Private | near Lohe, Germany | April 18, 1945 | Single-handedly attacked German positions which were firing on his unit. He disabled two enemy machine gun emplacements and killed nearly two dozen German soldiers before he was himself killed, at the age of 18. |
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Messerschmidt, Harold O.Harold O. Messerschmidt † | Army | Sergeant | near Radden, France | September 17, 1944 | |
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Metzger, Jr., William E.William E. Metzger, Jr. † | Army Air Forces | Second Lieutenant | Saarbrücken, Germany | November 9, 1944 | Co-piloted a B-17 aircraft on a bombing run on Saarbrücken. Even though his plane was severely damaged and set ablaze by anti-aircraft fire which wounded the engineer and the radio operator, Metzger and pilot Donald J. Gott successfully dropped their bombs on the target and flew the plane to friendly territory. After having their crew bail out except for the unconscious radio operator, Metzger and Gott attempted to crashland the plane to save their helpless comrade. The plane exploded, killing the three remaining crewmembers on board. |
Michael, Edward S.Edward S. Michael | Army Air Forces | First Lieutenant | over Germany | April 11, 1944 | ||
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Michael, Harry J.Harry J. Michael † | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Neiderzerf, Germany | March 14, 1945 | |
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Miller, AndrewAndrew Miller † | Army | Staff Sergeant | from Woippy, France to Kerprich Hemmersdorf, Germany | November 16, 1944 – November 29, 1944 | |
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Mills, James H.James H. Mills | Army | Private | near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy | May 24, 1944 | |
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Minick, John W.John W. Minick † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Hurtgen, Germany | November 21, 1944 | |
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Minue, NicholasNicholas Minue † | Army | Private | near MedjezelBab, Tunisia | April 28, 1943 | |
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Monteith, Jr., Jimmie W.Jimmie W. Monteith, Jr. † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, France | June 6, 1944 | |
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Montgomery, Jack C.Jack C. Montgomery | Army | First Lieutenant | near, Padiglione, Italy | February 22, 1944 | |
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Moon, Jr., Harold H.Harold H. Moon, Jr. † | Army | Private | Pawig, Leyte, Philippines | October 21, 1944 | |
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Morgan, John C.John C. Morgan | Army Air Forces | Second Lieutenant | over Germany | July 28, 1943 | |
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Moskala, Edward J.Edward J. Moskala † | Army | Private First Class | Kakazu Ridge, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands | April 9, 1945 | |
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Moto, KaoruKaoru Moto † | Army | Private First Class | near Castellina, Italy | July 7, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. On his own initiative he defeated a machine gun nest killing one soldier and taking a second one prisoner and forced an additional machine gun team to retreat. Even though wounded by sniper fire and relieved of his position, he defeated another machine gun nest on his way back to the rear, taking three more prisoners. |
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Mower, Charles E.Charles E. Mower † | Army | Sergeant | near Capoocan, Leyte, Philippines | November 3, 1944 | |
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Muller, Joseph E.Joseph E. Muller † | Army | Sergeant | near Ishimmi, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands | May 15, 1945 – May 16, 1945 | |
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Munemori, Sadao S.Sadao S. Munemori † | Army | Private First Class | near Seravezza, Italy | April 5, 1945 | For taking out two machine-gun emplacements and jumping onto a grenade to save 2 soldiers. |
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Munro, Douglas A.Douglas A. Munro † | Coast Guard | Signalman First Class | off Point Cruz, Guadalcanal | September 27, 1942 | Only member of the Coast Guard to receive the Medal of Honor. |
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Muranaga, Kiyoshi K.Kiyoshi K. Muranaga † | Army | Private First Class | near Suvereto, Italy | June 26, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Murphy, Audie L.Audie L. Murphy | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Holtzwihr, France | January 26, 1945 | An infantry company commander with many decorations and awards in World War II: Second Lt. Murphy commanded Company B, which was attacked by six tanks and waves of infantry. 2d Lt. Murphy ordered his men to withdraw to a prepared position in a woods, while he remained forward at his command post and continued to give fire directions to the artillery by telephone. Behind him, to his right, one of the tank destroyers received a direct hit and began to burn. Its crew withdrew to the woods. 2d Lt. Murphy continued to direct artillery fire, which killed large numbers of the advancing enemy infantry. With the enemy tanks abreast of his position, 2d Lt. Murphy climbed on the burning tank destroyer, which was in danger of blowing up at any moment, and employed its .50 caliber machine gun against the enemy. He was alone and exposed to German fire from three sides, but his deadly fire killed dozens of Germans and caused their infantry attack to waver. The enemy tanks, losing infantry support, began to fall back. For an hour the Germans tried every available weapon to eliminate 2d Lt. Murphy, but he continued to hold his position and wiped out a squad that was trying to creep up unnoticed on his right flank. Germans reached as close as 10 yards, only to be mowed down by his fire. He received a leg wound, but ignored it and continued his single-handed fight until his ammunition was exhausted. He then made his way back to his company, refused medical attention, and organized the company in a counterattack, which forced the Germans to withdraw. His directing of artillery fire wiped out many of the enemy; he killed or wounded about 50. 2d Lt. Murphy's indomitable courage and his refusal to give an inch of ground saved his company from possible encirclement and destruction, and enabled it to hold the woods which had been the enemy's objective |
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Murphy, Frederick C.Frederick C. Murphy † | Army | Private First Class | Siegfried Line at Saarlautern, Germany | March 18, 1945 | |
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Murray, Jr., Charles P.Charles P. Murray, Jr. | Army | First Lieutenant | near Kaysersberg, France | December 16, 1944 |
N
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Nakae, MasatoMasato Nakae † | Army | Private | near Pisa, Italy | August 19, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Nakamine, ShinyeiShinyei Nakamine † | Army | Private | near La Torreto, Italy | June 2, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Nakamura, William K.William K. Nakamura † | Army | Private First Class | near Castellina, Italy | July 4, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Nelson, William L.William L. Nelson † | Army | Sergeant | Djebel Dardys, Northwest of Sedjenane, Tunisia | April 24, 1943 | |
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Neppel, Ralph G.Ralph G. Neppel | Army | Sergeant | Birgel, Germany | December 14, 1944 | |
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Nett, Robert B.Robert B. Nett | Army | First Lieutenant | near Cognon, Leyte, Philippines | December 14, 1944 | |
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New, John D.John D. New † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Peleliu Island, Palau Group | September 25, 1944 | |
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Newman, Beryl R.Beryl R. Newman | Army | First Lieutenant | near Cisterna, Italy | May 26, 1944 | For single-handedly destroying three machine gun emplacements. |
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Nietzel, Alfred B.Alfred B. Nietzel † | Army | Sergeant | Heistern, Germany | November 18, 1944 | When an enemy assault threatened to overrun his unit's position, Nietzel covered for the retreating members of his squad, expending all his ammunition and holding his post until being killed. One of 24 soldiers who received their medals in 2014, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked. |
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Nininger, Alexander R.Alexander R. Nininger † | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Abucay, Bataan, Philippines | January 12, 1942 | |
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Nishimoto, Joe M.Joe M. Nishimoto † | Army | Private First Class | near La Houssiere, France | November 7, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
O
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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— |
Obrien, William J.William J. O'Brien † | Army | Lieutenant Colonel | Saipan, Marianas Islands | June 20, 1944 – July 7, 1944 | |
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Ocallahan, Joseph T.Joseph T. O'Callahan | Navy | Lieutenant Commander | near Kobe, Japan | March 19, 1945 | Chaplain aboard aircraft carrier USS Franklin. |
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Ogden, Carlos C.Carlos C. Ogden | Army | First Lieutenant | near Fort du Roule, France | June 25, 1944 | |
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Ohare, Edward H.Edward H. O'Hare | Navy | Lieutenant | off Papua New Guinea | February 20, 1942 | O'Hare International Airport in Chicago was named in his memory. |
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Ohata, Allan M.Allan M. Ohata † | Army | Sergeant | near Cerasuolo, Italy | November 29, 1943 – November 30, 1943 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Okane, Richard H.Richard H. O'Kane | Navy | Commander | Philippines | October 23, 1944 – October 24, 1944 | For submarine operations against two Japanese convoys. |
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Okubo, James K.James K. Okubo † | Army | Technician Fifth Grade | Foret Domaniale de Champ, near Biffontaine, France | October 28, 1944 – October 29, 1944 and November 4, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Okutsu, YukioYukio Okutsu | Army | Technical Sergeant | on Mount Belvedere, Italy | April 7, 1945 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Olson, Arlo L.Arlo L. Olson † | Army | Captain | crossing of the Volturno River, Italy | October 13, 1943 | |
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Olson, Truman O.Truman O. Olson † | Army | Sergeant | near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy | January 30, 1944 – January 31, 1944 | |
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Ono, Frank H.Frank H. Ono † | Army | Private First Class | near Castellina, Italy | July 4, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Oresko, NicholasNicholas Oresko | Army | Master Sergeant | near Tettingen, Germany | January 23, 1945 | For single-handedly destroying two bunkers while being seriously wounded. Was oldest living Medal of Honor recipient until passing on October 4, 2013. |
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Otani, KazuoKazuo Otani † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Pieve Di S. Luce, Italy | July 15, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Owens, Robert A.Robert A. Owens † | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Cape Torokina, Bougainville, Solomon Islands | November 1, 1943 | |
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Ozbourn, Joseph W.Joseph W. Ozbourn † | Marine Corps | Private | Tinian Island, Marianas Islands | July 30, 1944 | Private Ozbourn saved the lives of four fellow Marines by jumping on the top of a live hand grenade. |
P
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Paige, MitchellMitchell Paige | Marine Corps | Platoon Sergeant | Battle of Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands | October 26, 1942 | |
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Parle, John J.John J. Parle † | Navy | Ensign | aboard a landing ship, USS LST 375, off Sicily | July 9, 1943 – July 10, 1943 | |
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Parrish, LaverneLaverne Parrish † | Army | Technician Fourth Grade | Binalonan, Luzon, Philippines | January 18, 1945 – January 24, 1945 | |
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Pease, Jr., HarlHarl Pease, Jr. † | Army Air Forces | Captain | near Rabaul, New Britain | August 6, 1942 – August 7, 1942 | |
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Peden, Forrest E.Forrest E. Peden † | Army | Technician Fifth Grade | near Biesheim, France | February 3, 1945 | |
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Pendleton, Jack J.Jack J. Pendleton † | Army | Staff Sergeant | Bardenberg, Germany | October 12, 1944 | |
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Peregory, Frank D.Frank D. Peregory † | Army | Technical Sergeant | Grandcampe, France | June 8, 1944 | |
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Perez, Jr., ManuelManuel Perez, Jr. † | Army | Private First Class | Fort William McKinley, Luzon, Philippines | February 13, 1945 | |
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Peters, George J.George J. Peters † | Army | Private | near Fluren, Germany | March 24, 1945 | |
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Peterson, GeorgeGeorge Peterson † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Eisern, Germany | March 30, 1945 | |
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Peterson, Oscar V.Oscar V. Peterson † | Navy | Chief Watertender | USS Neosho, Battle of the Coral Sea | May 7, 1942 | |
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Petrarca, Frank J.Frank J. Petrarca † | Army | Private First Class | Horseshoe Hill, New Georgia, Solomon Islands | July 27, 1943 | |
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Pharris, Jackson C.Jackson C. Pharris | Navy | Gunner | Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Phelps, WesleyWesley Phelps † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Battle of Peleliu, Palau Islands | October 4, 1944 | |
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Phillips, GeorgeGeorge Phillips † | Marine Corps | Private | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 14, 1945 | |
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Pierce, Francis J.Francis J. Pierce | Navy | Pharmacist's Mate First Class | Iwo Jima | March 15, 1945 – March 16, 1945 | |
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Pinder, Jr., John J.John J. Pinder, Jr. † | Army | Technician Fifth Grade | near Colleville-sur-Mer, France | June 6, 1944 | |
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Pope, Everett P.Everett P. Pope | Marine Corps | Captain | Peleliu Island, Palau group | September 19, 1944 – September 20, 1944 | |
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Power, John V.John V. Power † | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands | February 1, 1944 | |
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Powers, John J.John J. Powers † | Navy | Lieutenant | over the Coral Sea and adjacent waters | May 4, 1942 – May 8, 1942 | |
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Powers, Leo J.Leo J. Powers | Army | Private First Class | northwest of Cassino, Italy | February 3, 1944 | |
Preston, Arthur M.Arthur M. Preston | Navy | Lieutenant | Wasile Bay, Halmahera Island | September 16, 1944 | ||
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Prussman, Ernest W.Ernest W. Prussman † | Army | Private First Class | near Les Coates, Brittany, France | September 8, 1944 | |
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Pucket, Donald D.Donald D. Pucket † | Army Air Forces | First Lieutenant | Ploiești Raid, Romania | July 9, 1944 |
R
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Ramage, Lawson P.Lawson P. Ramage | Navy | Commander | USS Parche, south of Taiwan | July 31, 1944 | Sunk enemy ships in gallant action. |
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Ray, Bernard J.Bernard J. Ray † | Army | First Lieutenant | Hurtgen Forest near Schevenhütte, Germany | November 17, 1944 | |
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Reese, James W.James W. Reese † | Army | Private | Mt. Vassillio, Sicily | August 5, 1943 | Sent mortars into enemy position in the line of fire so that his comrades can get across the hill. Shot down after the mortars were finally used up. |
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Reese, Jr., John N.John N. Reese, Jr. † | Army | Private First Class | Paco Railroad Station, Manila, Philippines | February 9, 1945 | |
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Reeves, Thomas J.Thomas J. Reeves † | Navy | Chief Radioman | USS California, Pearl Harbor | December 7, 1941 | Died on the USS California. |
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Ricketts, Milton E.Milton E. Ricketts † | Navy | Lieutenant | USS Yorktown, Battle of the Coral Sea | May 8, 1942 | |
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Riordan, Paul F.Paul F. Riordan † | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Cassino, Italy | February 3, 1944 – February 8, 1944 | |
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Rivers, RubenRuben Rivers † | Army | Staff Sergeant | toward Guebling, France | November 15, 1944 – November 19, 1944 | One of seven African American soldiers who received their medals belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. From his citation "for extraordinary heroism" in an assault on German positions near Guebling, France: "Though severely wounded in the leg, Sergeant Rivers refused medical treatment and evacuation, took command of another tank, and advanced with his company in Guebling the next day. Repeatedly refusing evacuation, Sergeant Rivers continued to direct his tank's fire at enemy positions through the morning of 19 November 1944. At dawn, Company A's tanks began to advance towards Bougaktroff, but were stopped by enemy fire. Sergeant Rivers, joined by another tank, opened fire on the enemy tanks, covering company A as they withdrew. While doing so, Sergeant Rivers' tank was hit, killing him and wounding the crew." |
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Roan, Charles H.Charles H. Roan † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Peleliu, Palau Islands | September 18, 1944 | |
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Robinson, Jr., James E.James E. Robinson, Jr. † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Untergriesheim, Germany | April 6, 1945 | |
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Rodriguez, Cleto L.Cleto L. Rodriguez | Army | Private | Paco Railroad Station, Manila, Philippines | February 9, 1945 | |
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Roeder, Robert E.Robert E. Roeder † | Army | Captain | Mt. Battaglia, Italy | September 27, 1944 – September 28, 1944 | |
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Rooks, Albert H.Albert H. Rooks † | Navy | Captain | USS Houston | February 4, 1942 – February 27, 1942 | Commanded USS Houston during early days of war. Led during Battle of Java Sea. Killed in action while attempting to lead Houston and HMAS Perth to safety in Sunda Strait. |
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Roosevelt, Jr., TheodoreTheodore Roosevelt, Jr. † | Army | Brigadier General | Utah Beach, Normandy invasion | June 6, 1944 | With his father, Theodore Roosevelt, became second father and son pair to both receive the Medal of Honor. Died of a heart attack before he could receive the award. |
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Ross, Donald K.Donald K. Ross | Navy | Machinist | Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Ross, Wilburn K.Wilburn K. Ross | Army | Private | near St. Jacques, France | October 30, 1944 | |
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Rouh, Carlton R.Carlton R. Rouh | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Peleliu Island, Palau group | September 15, 1944 | |
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Rudolph, Donald E.Donald E. Rudolph | Army | Technical Sergeant | Munoz, Luzon, Philippines | February 5, 1945 | For destroying 8 pillboxes, a trench and a tank while under fire. |
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Ruhl, Donald J.Donald J. Ruhl † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 19, 1945 – February 21, 1945 | |
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Ruiz, Alejandro R.Alejandro R. Ruiz | Army | Private First Class | Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands | April 28, 1945 |
S
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Sadowski, Joseph J.Joseph J. Sadowski † | Army | Sergeant | Valhey, France | September 14, 1944 | |
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Sakato, George T.George T. Sakato | Army | Private | Hill 617, near Biffontaine, France | October 29, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
Salomon, Benjamin L.Benjamin L. Salomon † | Army | Captain | Saipan, Marianas Islands | July 7, 1944 | ||
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Sarnoski, Joseph R.Joseph R. Sarnoski † | Army Air Forces | Second Lieutenant | over Buka area, Solomon Islands | June 16, 1943 | |
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Sayers, Foster J.Foster J. Sayers † | Army | Private First Class | near Thionville, France | November 12, 1944 | |
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Schaefer, Joseph E.Joseph E. Schaefer | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Stolberg, Germany | September 24, 1944 | |
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Schauer, HenryHenry Schauer | Army | Private First Class | near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy | May 23, 1944 – May 24, 1944 | |
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Schonland, Herbert E.Herbert E. Schonland | Navy | Commander | Savo Island | November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 | Took command of USS San Francisco after captain had been killed, fought ship and led her to safety. |
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Schwab, Albert E.Albert E. Schwab † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands | May 7, 1945 | |
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Schwab, Donald K.Donald K. Schwab † | Army | First Lieutenant | Near Lure, Haute-Saône, France | September 17, 1944 | Under intense enemy fire, dismantled a strong German position and took a prisoner of war. |
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Scott, NormanNorman Scott † | Navy | Rear Admiral | off Savo Island | October 11, 1942 – October 12, 1942 and November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 | |
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Scott, Robert R.Robert R. Scott † | Navy | Machinist's Mate First Class | Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Scott, Robert S.Robert S. Scott | Army | Lieutenant | near Munda Air Strip, New Georgia, Solomon Islands | July 29, 1943 | For single-handedly defeating a Japanese patrol. |
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Shea, Charles W.Charles W. Shea | Army | Second Lieutenant | near Mount Damiano, Italy | May 12, 1944 | |
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Sheridan, Carl V.Carl V. Sheridan † | Army | Private First Class | Frenzenberg Castle, Weisweiler, Germany | November 26, 1944 | |
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Shockley, William R.William R. Shockley † | Army | Private First Class | Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines | March 31, 1945 | |
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Shomo, William A.William A. Shomo | Army Air Forces | Major | over Luzon, Philippines | January 11, 1945 | 7 victories in one action |
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Shoup, Curtis F.Curtis F. Shoup † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Tillet, Belgium | January 7, 1945 | |
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Shoup, David M.David M. Shoup | Marine Corps | Colonel | Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands | November 20, 1943 – November 22, 1943 | Wrote battle plan for Tarawa assault, directed assault from trench on Betio beach as first waves came ashore.Twenty-second Commandant of the United States Marine Corps (January 1, 1960 – December 31, 1963) |
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Sigler, Franklin E.Franklin E. Sigler | Marine Corps | Private | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 14, 1945 | |
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Silk, Edward A.Edward A. Silk | Army | First Lieutenant | near St. Pravel, France | November 23, 1944 | |
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Sjogren, John C.John C. Sjogren | Army | Staff Sergeant | near San Jose Hacienda, Negros, Philippines | May 23, 1945 | |
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Skaggs, Jr., LutherLuther Skaggs, Jr. | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Asan-Adelup beachhead, Guam, Marianas Islands | July 21, 1944 – July 22, 1944 | |
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Slaton, James D.James D. Slaton | Army | Corporal | near Oliveto, Italy | September 23, 1943 | |
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Smith, Furman L.Furman L. Smith † | Army | Private | near Lanuvio, Italy | May 31, 1944 | |
Smith, John L.John L. Smith | Marine Corps | Major | Solomon Islands area | August 1942 – September 1942 | ||
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Smith, Maynard H.Maynard H. Smith | Army Air Forces | Sergeant | over Brest, France | May 1, 1943 | AKA- Snuffy Smith. On his first mission as a B-17 gunner Sgt. Smith helped save the lives of six of his wounded comrades, put out a fire, and drove off waves of German fighters. |
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Soderman, William A.William A. Soderman | Army | Private First Class | near Rocherath, Belgium | December 17, 1944 | |
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Sorenson, Richard K.Richard K. Sorenson | Marine Corps | Private | Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll Marshall Islands | February 1, 1944 – February 2, 1944 | |
— |
Specker, Joe C.Joe C. Specker † | Army | Sergeant | Mount Porchia, Italy | January 7, 1944 | |
— |
Spurrier, Junior J.Junior J. Spurrier | Army | Staff Sergeant | Achain, France | November 13, 1944 | |
— |
Squires, John C.John C. Squires † | Army | Private First Class | near Padiglione, Italy | April 23, 1944 – April 24, 1944 | |
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Stein, TonyTony Stein † | Marine Corps | Corporal | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 19, 1945 | First Medal of Honor of Iwo Jima |
— |
Street, III, George L.George L. Street, III | Navy | Lieutenant Commander | harbor of Quelpart Island, off the coast of Korea | April 14, 1945 | For torpedoing three enemy ships while captain of USS Triante. |
— |
Stryker, Stuart S.Stuart S. Stryker † | Army | Private First Class | near Wesel, Germany | March 24, 1945 | |
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Swett, James E.James E. Swett | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Solomon Islands area | April 7, 1943 | For downing eight Japanese Vals off the coast of Guadacanal |
T
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Tanouye, Ted T.Ted T. Tanouye † | Army | Technical Sergeant | near Molino A Ventoabbto, Italy | July 7, 1944 | One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
— |
Terry, Seymour W.Seymour W. Terry † | Army | Captain | Zebra Hill, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands | May 11, 1945 | |
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Thomas, Charles L.Charles L. Thomas † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Climbach, France | December 14, 1944 | One of seven African American soldiers who received their awards belatedly, after a 1993 study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Thomas, Herbert J.Herbert J. Thomas † | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Koromokina River, Bougainville Islands, Solomon Islands | November 7, 1943 | |
— |
Thomas, William H.William H. Thomas † | Army | Private First Class | Zambales Mountains, Luzon, Philippines | April 22, 1945 | |
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Thomason, Clyde A.Clyde A. Thomason † | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Island of Makin | August 17, 1942 – August 18, 1942 | |
— |
Thompson, MaxMax Thompson | Army | Sergeant | near Haaren, Germany | October 18, 1944 | |
— |
Thorne, Horace M.Horace M. Thorne † | Army | Corporal | near Grufflingen, Belgium | December 21, 1944 | |
— |
Thorson, John F.John F. Thorson † | Army | Private First Class | Dagami, Leyte, Philippines | October 28, 1944 | |
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Timmerman, Grant F.Grant F. Timmerman † | Marine Corps | Sergeant | Saipan, Marianas Islands | July 8, 1944 | |
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Tomich, PeterPeter Tomich † | Navy | Chief Watertender | USS Utah (BB-31), Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
— |
Tominac, John J.John J. Tominac | Army | First Lieutenant | Saulx de Vesoul, France | September 12, 1944 | |
— |
Towle, John R.John R. Towle † | Army | Private | near Oosterhout, Holland | September 21, 1944 | |
— |
Treadwell, Jack L.Jack L. Treadwell | Army | First Lieutenant | near Nieder-Wurzbach, Germany | March 18, 1945 | |
— |
Truemper, Walter E.Walter E. Truemper † | Army Air Forces | Second Lieutenant | over Europe | February 20, 1944 | |
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Turner, Day G.Day G. Turner † | Army | Sergeant | Dahl, Luxembourg | January 8, 1945 | |
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Turner, George B.George B. Turner | Army | Private First Class | Philippsbourg, France | January 3, 1945 – January 4, 1945 |
U
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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— |
Urban, MattMatt Urban | Army | Captain | Renouf, France | June 14, 1944 – September 3, 1944 | An infantry company and battalion commander with many decorations and awards including seven Purple Hearts in World War II: "Distinguished himself by a series of bold, heroic actions, exemplified by a singularly outstanding combat leadership, personal bravery, and tenacious devotion to duty... Captain Urban's personal leadership, limitless bravery, and repeated extraordinary exposure to enemy fire served as an inspiration to his entire battalion. His valourous and intrepid actions reflect the utmost credit on him and uphold the noble traditions of the United States Army." |
V
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Valdez, Jose F.Jose F. Valdez † | Army | Private First Class | near Rosenkrantz, France | January 25, 1945 | |
— |
Van Noy, JuniorJunior Van Noy † | Army | Private | near Finschafen, New Guinea | October 17, 1943 | |
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Van Valkenburgh, FranklinFranklin Van Valkenburgh † | Navy | Captain | Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | Commanding officer of the USS Arizona. |
— |
Van Voorhis, Bruce A.Bruce A. Van Voorhis † | Navy | Lieutenant Commander | Greenwich Island, battle of the Solomon Islands | July 6, 1943 | |
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Vance, Jr., Leon R.Leon R. Vance, Jr. † | Army Air Forces | Lieutenant Colonel | over Wimereaux, France | June 5, 1944 | Died in unrelated air crash before receiving his Medal. |
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Vandegrift, Alexander A.Alexander A. Vandegrift | Marine Corps | Major General | Battle of Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands | August 7, 1942 – December 9, 1942 | Later became the 18th Commandant of the Marine Corps. |
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Viale, Robert M.Robert M. Viale † | Army | Second Lieutenant | Manila, Luzon, Philippines | February 5, 1945 | |
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Villegas, Ysmael R.Ysmael R. Villegas † | Army | Staff Sergeant | Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines | March 20, 1945 | |
— |
Vlug, Dirk J.Dirk J. Vlug | Army | Private First Class | near Limon, Leyte, Philippines | December 15, 1944 | |
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Vosler, Forrest L.Forrest L. Vosler | Army Air Forces | Technical Sergeant | over Bremen, Germany | December 20, 1943 |
W
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Wahlen, George E.George E. Wahlen | Navy | Pharmacist's Mate Second Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands group | March 3, 1945 | |
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Wai, Francis B.Francis B. Wai † | Army | Captain | Leyte, Philippines | October 20, 1944 | Deliberately exposed himself to fire from Japanese pillboxes and led men on the beachhead; was killed in assault on last pillbox. One of 22 Asian American soldiers who received their medals in 2000, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
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Wainwright, IV, Jonathan M.Jonathan M. Wainwright, IV | Army | Lieutenant General | Philippines | March 12, 1942 – May 7, 1942 | Wainwright commanded the doomed Allied garrison of Corregidor and ordered its surrender to Japanese forces in 1942. He was the highest ranking U.S. officer in captivity during his three years as a prisoner of war. The general would witness the surrender of the Japanese forces aboard the USS Missouri that brought about the end of the war. Wainwright was nominated for the Medal of Honor early in his captivity, but it was rejected due to the opposition of General Douglas MacArthur, who felt that Corregidor should not have been surrendered. MacArthur did not oppose the renewed proposal in 1945. |
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Walker, Kenneth N.Kenneth N. Walker † | Army Air Forces | Brigadier General | Rabaul, New Britain | January 5, 1943 | For Conspicuous Leadership above and beyond the call of Duty |
— |
Wallace, Herman C.Herman C. Wallace † | Army | Private First Class | near Prümzurlay, Germany | February 27, 1945 | |
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Walsh, Kenneth A.Kenneth A. Walsh | Marine Corps | First Lieutenant | Solomon Islands area | August 15, 1943 and August 30, 1943 | |
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Walsh, William G.William G. Walsh † | Marine Corps | Gunnery Sergeant | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 27, 1945 | |
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Ward, James R.James R. Ward † | Navy | Seaman First Class | Pearl Harbor, Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | |
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Ware, Keith L.Keith L. Ware | Army | Lieutenant Colonel | near Sigolsheim, France | December 26, 1944 | |
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Warner, Henry F.Henry F. Warner † | Army | Corporal | near Dom Butgenbach, Belgium | December 20, 1944 – December 21, 1944 | |
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Watson, GeorgeGeorge Watson † | Army | Private | at sea near New Guinea | March 8, 1943 | "The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Private George Watson, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on 8 March 1943, while serving with 29th Quarter Master Regiment, in action at Porloch Harbor, New Guinea. Private Watson was on board a ship which was attacked and hit by enemy bombers. When the ship was abandoned, Private Watson, instead of seeking to save himself, remained in the water assisting several soldiers who could not swim to reach the safety of the raft. This heroic action, which subsequently cost him his life, resulted in the saving of several of his comrades. Weakened by his exertions, he was dragged down by the suction of the sinking ship and was drowned. Private Watson's extraordinarily valorous actions, daring leadership, and self-sacrificing devotion to his fellow-man exemplify the finest traditions of military service." Watson was one of seven African American soldiers who received their medals in a belated 1997 ceremony, after a study revealed discrimination that caused them to be overlooked at the time. |
Watson, Wilson D.Wilson D. Watson | Marine Corps | Private | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 26, 1945 – February 27, 1945 | ||
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Waugh, Robert T.Robert T. Waugh † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Tremensucli, Italy | May 11, 1944 – May 14, 1944 | |
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Waybur, David C.David C. Waybur | Army | First Lieutenant | near Agrigento, Sicily | July 17, 1943 | Led his patrol in holding off an Italian tank attack despite severe wounds. |
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Weicht, Ellis R.Ellis R. Weicht † | Army | Sergeant | St. Hippolyte, France | December 3, 1944 | |
— |
Wetzel, Walter C.Walter C. Wetzel † | Army | Private First Class | Birken, Germany | April 3, 1945 | |
— |
Whiteley, Eli L.Eli L. Whiteley | Army | First Lieutenant | Sigolsheim, France | December 27, 1944 | |
— |
Whittington, Hulon B.Hulon B. Whittington | Army | Sergeant | near Grimesnil, France | July 29, 1944 | |
— |
Wiedorfer, Paul J.Paul J. Wiedorfer | Army | Private | near, Chaumont, Belgium | December 25, 1944 | |
— |
Wigle, Thomas W.Thomas W. Wigle † | Army | Second Lieutenant | Monte Frassino, Italy | September 14, 1944 | |
— |
Wilbur, William H.William H. Wilbur | Army | Colonel | Fedala, North Africa | November 8, 1942 | |
— |
Wilkin, Edward G.Edward G. Wilkin † | Army | Corporal | Siegfried Line in Germany | March 18, 1945 | |
— |
Wilkins, Raymond H.Raymond H. Wilkins † | Army Air Forces | Major | near Rabaul, New Britain | November 2, 1943 | |
— |
Will, Walter J.Walter J. Will † | Army | First Lieutenant | near Eisern, Germany | March 30, 1945 | |
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Williams, Hershel W.Hershel W. Williams | Marine Corps | Corporal | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 23, 1945 | |
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Williams, JackJack Williams † | Navy | Pharmacist's Mate Third Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | March 3, 1945 | |
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Willis, John H.John H. Willis † | Navy | Pharmacist's Mate First Class | Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands | February 28, 1945 | For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Platoon Corpsman serving with the 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. Constantly imperiled by artillery and mortar fire from strong and mutually supporting pillboxes and caves studding Hill 362 in the enemy's cross-island defenses, Willis resolutely administered first aid to the many marines wounded during the furious close-in fighting until he himself was struck by shrapnel and was ordered back to the battle-aid station. Without waiting for official medical release, he quickly returned to his company and, during a savage hand-to-hand enemy counterattack, daringly advanced to the extreme frontlines under mortar and sniper fire to aid a marine lying wounded in a shellhole. Completely unmindful of his own danger as the Japanese intensified their attack, Willis calmly continued to administer blood plasma to his patient, promptly returning the first hostile grenade which landed in the shell-hole while he was working and hurling back 7 more in quick succession before the ninth exploded in his hand and instantly killed him. By his great personal valor in saving others at the sacrifice of his own life, he inspired his companions, although terrifically outnumbered, to launch a fiercely determined attack and repulse the enemy force. His exceptional fortitude and courage in the performance of duty reflect the highest credit upon Willis and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.[1] |
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Wilson, Alfred L.Alfred L. Wilson † | Army | Technician Fifth Grade | near Bezange la Petite, France | November 8, 1944 | |
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Wilson, Jr., Louis H.Louis H. Wilson, Jr. | Marine Corps | Captain | Fonte Hill, Guam | July 25, 1944 – July 26, 1944 | Later Became Commandant of the Marine Corps |
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Wilson, Robert L.Robert L. Wilson † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Tinian Island, Marianas Group | August 3, 1944 | |
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Wise, Homer L.Homer L. Wise | Army | Staff Sergeant | Magliano, Italy | June 14, 1944 | |
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Witek, Frank P.Frank P. Witek † | Marine Corps | Private First Class | Battle of Finegayen, Guam, Marianas | August 3, 1944 | |
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Woodford, Howard E.Howard E. Woodford † | Army | Staff Sergeant | near Tabio, Luzon, Philippines | June 6, 1945 | By daring, skillful, and inspiring leadership, as well as by gallant determination to search out and kill the enemy, led an inexperienced unit in capturing and securing a vital objective, and was responsible for the successful continuance of a vitally important general advance. Transport ship named after him. |
Y
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
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Young, CassinCassin Young | Navy | Commander | USS Vestal, Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii | December 7, 1941 | Moved his ship, the USS Vestal, away from the battleship USS Arizona, and subsequently beached it upon determining that such action was required to save his ship. |
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Young, Rodger W.Rodger W. Young † | Army | Private | New Georgia, Solomon Islands | July 31, 1943 | After being pinned by enemy fire for a long time, he single-handedly attacked and destroyed an enemy machine-gun pillbox, although he died of his injuries right afterwards. His actions helped the rest of the unit return to base without taking any more casualties. |
Z
This along with the †, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
Image | Name | Service | Rank | Place of action | Date of action | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Zeamer, Jr., JayJay Zeamer, Jr. | Army Air Forces | Captain | over Buka area, Solomon Islands | June 16, 1943 | Volunteered as pilot of a bomber on an important photographic mapping mission covering the formidably defended area in the vicinity of Buka, Solomon Islands |
— |
Zussman, RaymondRaymond Zussman † | Army | Second Lieutenant | Noroy le Bourg, France | September 12, 1944 | In lead of a tank killed 18 enemy soldiers and captured 92 |
† N.B. A † in the citation indicates that the award was given posthumously.
See also
Notes
This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Army Center of Military History.
- ↑ "A Brief History — The Medal of Honor". Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Department of Defense. August 8, 2006. Retrieved February 9, 2010.
- ↑ Official military histories in Commonwealth nations refer to the conflict as the Second World War, while the United States' official histories refer to the conflict as World War II. English translations of the official histories of other nations tend to resolve into English as Second World War also, for example zweite weltkrieg in German. See C.P. Stacey Official History of the Canadian Army in the Second World War, for example. "Official" usage of these terms is giving way to popular usage and the two terms are becoming interchangeable even in formal military history.
- ↑ Niiya, Brian. "Congressional Medal of Honor recipients," Densho Encyclopedia. Retrieved 5 August 2014.
References
- "Who's Who list of Marines". Who's Who in Marine Corps History. History Division, United States Marine Corps. Retrieved July 24, 2008.
- "Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipients". World War II 1941-1945. History Division, United States Marine Corps. Retrieved November 16, 2012.
- "Medal of Honor recipients". World War II (A - F). United States Army Center of Military History. June 8, 2009. Retrieved June 8, 2009.
- "Medal of Honor recipients". World War II (G - L). United States Army Center of Military History. June 8, 2009. Retrieved June 8, 2009.
- "Medal of Honor recipients". World War II (M - S). United States Army Center of Military History. June 8, 2009. Retrieved June 8, 2009.
- "Medal of Honor recipients". World War II (T - Z). United States Army Center of Military History. June 8, 2009. Retrieved June 8, 2009.
- "Medal of Honor recipients". Medal of Honor statistics. United States Army Center of Military History. June 8, 2009. Retrieved June 8, 2009.