John Willis
John Harlan Willis (June 10, 1921 – February 28, 1945) was a United States Navy sailor. He received the Medal of Honor because of his actions in World War II.[1]
Medal of Honor citation
Willis' Medal of Honor recognized his conduct at the Battle of Iwo Jima. He was killed while giving frontline first aid to the many marines wounded in fighting.[1]
The words of Willis' citation explain:
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]
Namesake
John Willis is the namesake of the destroyer escort ship USS John Willis (DE-1027) which was named in his honor.[2]
Related pages
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 US Army Center of Military History, "Medal of Honor Recipients, World War II (T-Z)" Archived 2009-02-12 at the Wayback Machine; retrieved 2012-11-23.
- ↑ Naval Historical Center, "Pharmacist's Mate First Class John H. Willis, USN, (1921-1945)" Archived 2007-02-10 at the Wayback Machine; retrieved 2011-11-23.