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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" or an "opposing foreign force". 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 was drawn into World War II on December 8, 1941, a day after the Axis-member Japan launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Honolulu that killed almost 2,500 people in what was considered the biggest peacetime loss on American soil inflicted by foreign people at that time.

For actions during World War II, 472 United States military personnel received the Medal of Honor.[3] 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 attack on Pearl Harbor, for which 17 U.S. servicemen were awarded a Medal, although they did so "while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force" rather than "enemy" since the United States was neutral during the events of December 7, 1941. 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-American and twenty-two Asian-American soldiers 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.[4]

A

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Lucian Adams Army Staff Sergeant near St. Dié, France October 28, 1944 Personally killed 9 Germans, eliminated 3 enemy machine guns, vanquished a specialized force which was armed with automatic weapons and grenade launchers, cleared the woods of hostile elements, and reopened the severed supply lines to the assault companies of his battalion.
Head of a young man in military uniform with a quizzical look on his face. His garrison cap is tilted off to one side and a tuft of short hair sticks out from the other. Harold C. Agerholm  Marine Corps Private First Class Saipan, Mariana Islands July 7, 1944 For single-handedly evacuating approximately 45 casualties under heavy rifle and mortar fire.
Beauford T. Anderson Army Technical Sergeant Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 13, 1945 Risked his life to save several of his fellow soldiers and repel an enemy attack single-handedly.
Head of a young man in a military jacket and tie, looking down and to the right Richard B. Anderson  Marine Corps Private First Class Roi Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands February 1, 1944 In a shell crater, Richard B. Anderson hurled his body upon a grenade to save his companions, taking the full impact of the explosion.
Sylvester 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 machine gun nest during the second day of the offensive which broke through the German cordon of steel around the Anzio beachhead.
Head of a middle-aged man wearing a light-colored jacket with stripes and a star on shoulderboards, a dark colored tie, and a peaked cap with decorative leaves on the visor. 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.
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

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Head of a young white man with neatly combed dark hair in a military jacket with a strap diagonally across the chest and badges pinned to his left breast Kenneth D. Bailey  Marine Corps Major Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands September 12, 1942 – September 13, 1942 For repelling enemy offensive maneuvers, holding the main line and upholding friendly morale while sustaining fire from superior enemy forces despite a severe head wound.
Profile of a white man leaning forward with a large phone handset pressed to his ear. He is wearing a leather jacket over a shirt and tie. Addison E. Baker  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.
Portrait of a white man in a military uniform looking off to his left and smiling. Thomas A. Baker  Army Private Saipan, Mariana Islands June 19, 1944 – July 7, 1944 On Saipan in the Mariana 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 M1911 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.
Head and shoulders of a black man with full cheeks in military uniform. Rows of ribbon bars are on his left breast and his lapels and garrison cap are adorned with pins and badges. Vernon J. Baker 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.
Color photo of Barfoot wearing his Medal of Honor and a blue suit. He is facing the camera and smiling. Van T. Barfoot Technical Sergeant near Carano, Italy May 23, 1944 "With his platoon heavily engaged during an assault against forces well entrenched on commanding ground, 2d Lt. Barfoot (then Tech. Sgt.) moved off alone upon the enemy left flank. He crawled to the proximity of 1 machine gun nest and made a direct hit on it with a hand grenade, killing 2 and wounding 3 Germans. He continued along the German defense line to another machine gun emplacement, and with his tommygun killed 2 and captured 3 soldiers. Members of another enemy machine gun crew then abandoned their position and gave themselves up to Sgt. Barfoot. Leaving the prisoners for his support squad to pick up, he proceeded to mop up positions in the immediate area, capturing more prisoners and bringing his total count to 17. Later that day, after he had reorganized his men and consolidated the newly captured ground, the enemy launched a fierce armored counterattack directly at his platoon positions. Securing a bazooka, Sgt. Barfoot took up an exposed position directly in front of 3 advancing Mark VI tanks. From a distance of 75 yards his first shot destroyed the track of the leading tank, effectively disabling it, while the other 2 changed direction toward the flank. As the crew of the disabled tank dismounted, Sgt. Barfoot killed 3 of them with his tommygun. He continued onward into enemy terrain and destroyed a recently abandoned German fieldpiece with a demolition charge placed in the breech. While returning to his platoon position, Sgt. Barfoot, though greatly fatigued by his Herculean efforts, assisted 2 of his seriously wounded men 1,700 yards to a position of safety. Sgt. Barfoot's extraordinary heroism, demonstration of magnificent valor, and aggressive determination in the face of pointblank fire are a perpetual inspiration to his fellow soldiers."[5]
photo of Barrett holding MoH box. Carlton W. Barrett 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.
Head of a young white man in a plain dark jacket with a star-shaped medal hanging from a ribbon around his neck. His garrison cap is tilted to the side and has a single round pin on its side. John 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 Navy Cross.
Head and torso of a white man sitting with his right arm resting on something in front of him. He is wearing a military uniform with a wide belt, a strap diagonally across the chest, and a peaked cap. Harold W. Bauer  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.
Head of a half-smiling white man wearing a shirt and tie and a garrison cap tilted over his right ear. Lewis K. Bausell  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.
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.
Bernard P. Bell 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.
Stanley Bender Staff Sergeant near La Londe les maures, 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.
George Benjamin Jr.  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.
Edward A. Bennett 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.
Head of a middle-aged white man with thinning hair, wearing a dark suit coat, white shirt, and dark tie. Mervyn S. Bennion  Navy Captain West Virginia, 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.
Head and shoulders of a white man wearing a light colored shirt and tie and a peaked cap with a dark visor. 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.
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.
Arthur O. Beyer 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.
Head and torso of a smirking white man wearing a peaked cap and a military jacket, adorned with pins and badges and a strap running diagonally across his chest, over a shirt and tie. Willibald C. Bianchi  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.
Melvin E. Biddle 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.
Head and shoulders of a smiling young white man wearing a naval uniform consisting of a white shirt with a dark scarf tied around the neck and running under the large, flat, collar, and a white "Dixie Cup" hat. 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.
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.
Orville E. Bloch 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.
Paul L. Bolden 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.
Head and shoulders of a stern-faced white man. A row of ribbon bars are on his left breast as is the Combat Infantryman's Badge and the star-shaped Medal of Honor hangs from a ribbon around his neck. Cecil H. Bolton First Lieutenant Mark River, Holland November 2, 1944 After being severely wounded in the legs and rendered unconsciousness from a German shell, he advanced voluntarily towards several enemy emplacements and led his team through intense enemy fire, and eliminated several machine gunners and an 88-mm. artillery piece.
Head and shoulders of a stern-faced white man with his arms folded over his military jacket, standing in front of a wall map and an American flag. Rows of ribbon bars are on his left breast, pins adorn his lapels, and a star-shaped medal hangs from a ribbon around his neck. Richard I. Bong 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.
Head and shoulders of a young white man wearing a garrison cap and a plain military jacket over a shirt and tie Alexander Bonnyman Jr.  Marine Corps First Lieutenant Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands November 20, 1943 – November 22, 1943 During a counterattack at the far end of Betio Pier, he directed and reorganized his pioneer party after suffering heavy bombardment, and directed the blowing of several hostile installations. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. then led his party into a renewed assault, effectively taking over a heavily fortified enemy emplacement, resulting in, approximately, 150 hostile troops being killed.
Robert D. Booker  Army Private near Fondouk, Tunisia April 9, 1943 While engaged in action against the enemy, he ran 200 yards of open ground with a machine gun and a box of ammunition, while under heavy fire from hostile machine gunners, mortar and artillery.
Head of a white man in a military jacket with dark hair, short on the sides and slightly longer, and ruffled, on top. William J. Bordelon  Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands November 20, 1943 Surviving a counterattack and sustaining heavy fire, William J. Bordelon attacked several enemy emplacements with demolitions and disregarded his own serious condition in order to rescue and aid two of his men.
George W. G. Boyce Jr.  Army Second Lieutenant near Afua, New Guinea July 23, 1944 After being ambushed by superior enemy forces, he was planning a tactical maneuver with his platoon. During this planning, a hand grenade fell in between him and his men, and he promptly threw himself upon the grenade to save his men.
Head of a squinting man wearing a shirt unbuttoned at the collar and a cloth aviator's cap with headphones built into the ear flaps, an unbuckled chin strap, and goggles pushed up onto his forehead. Pappy Boyington Marine Corps Major Central Solomons area September 12, 1943 – January 3, 1944 Fighter pilot with 26 victories.
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 November 20, 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.
Maurice L. Britt First Lieutenant North of Mignano, Italy November 10, 1943 Played football for the Detroit Lions, later Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas.
Leonard C. Brostrom  Private First Class near Dagami, Leyte, Philippines October 28, 1944 During an ambush, his platoon sustained heavy fire from well-camouflaged emplacements which resulted in severe casualties. After noticing a weak point in the enemy fortification, Leonard C. Brostrom charged without hesitation to flush out the enemies. During this, he was a prime target and was killed in action, but his company managed to reorganize and assault the enemy.
Bobbie E. Brown Captain Crucifix Hill, Aachen, Germany October 8, 1944
Head and torso of an elderly white man, in front of an American flag, with his hands folded and resting on a table in front of him. He is wearing a white jacket with a row of medals hanging from ribbons and a winged pin on his left breast, gold shoulder-boards, and a star-shaped medal hanging from a light blue ribbon around his neck. His peaked cap is white with a black visor decorated with gold leaves, a gold band around the brim, and an eagle-anchors-and-shield emblem on the front. John D. Bulkeley Navy Lieutenant Commander Philippine waters December 7, 1941 – April 10, 1942
Frank Burke Army First Lieutenant Nuremberg, Germany April 17, 1945 Also known as Francis X. Burke.
Elmer J. Burr  First Sergeant Buna, New Guinea December 24, 1942 For smothering a grenade with his body, sacrificing himself to save others around him.
Herbert H. Burr Staff Sergeant near Dorrmoschel, Germany March 19, 1945 He was awarded the Medal of Honor for not bailing on his mission and single-handedly destroying an 88mm anti-tank turret by driving a damaged tank over top of the gun. He also continued to destroy a German truck and directed medics to his injured men on foot while running through sniper fire.
James M. Burt Captain near Wurselen, Germany October 13, 1944 Commanded an infantry-tank attack while exposed to enemy fire, as well as ran through 75 yards through heavy fire to assist the infantry battalion commander who was seriously wounded.
Head and torso of a young white man with neatly combed hair wearing a dark military jacket with a wide belt and a few ribbon bars on the left breast. A star-shaped medal hangs from a ribbon around his neck. Richard E. Bush Marine Corps Corporal Mount Yaedake, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 16, 1945 Bush was a Squad Leader serving with the First Battalion, Fourth Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in action against Japanese forces during the final assault against Mt. Yaetake on Okinawa. He led his troops up the rocky precipice, over the ridge and drove out defending Japanese troops. He fought relentlessly in the forefront of the attack until being evacuated due to his wounds. Although prostrate under medical treatment when a Japanese grenade landed in the midst of his group, he pulled it into his body, taking the full force of the blast and saving the lives of his fellow marines. He was one of the four surviving marines who shielded grenades with their bodies during World War II.
Profile of a young white man wearing a white sailor's cap and a dark sailor suit. A star-shaped medal hangs from a wide ribbon around his neck. Robert E. Bush Navy Hospital Apprentice First class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 2, 1945 Hospital Corpsman serving with Marines.
John E. Butts 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

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Head and shoulders of a young white man wearing a military jacket with a single cross-shaped pin on the left breast, one stripe on the upper sleeve, and a peaked cap with an eagle-globe-and-anchor emblem on the front. William R. Caddy  Marine Corps Private First Class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 3, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body in order to save the lives of his platoon leader and platoon sergeant
Head and shoulders of a man in a white jacket with black shoulderboards with binoculars hanging from around his neck. His eyes are shaded by a white peaked cap with a black visor. Daniel J. Callaghan  Navy Rear Admiral Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, Savo Sound, Solomon Islands November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his ship's part in taking back the Solomon Islands from the Japanese. His heavy cruiser, the San Francisco, along with three light cruisers and another heavy cruiser drove the Japanese out of the area. This alongside the Battle of Midway was a major turning point for the Allied Forces.
Jose Calugas Army Sergeant Culis, Bataan Province, Philippines January 16, 1942 He was born in Leon, Iloilo, Philippines to Filipino parents. Organized a squad of volunteers to man an artillery position under heavy fire. Received a direct commission and became a United States citizen. Retiring from the Army, he settled in Tacoma, Washington.
Head and shoulders of a young white man with wavy, neatly combed, hair wearing a dark jacket with large bright buttons, a high stiff collar, a strap laying diagonally across the chest, and two pins on his left breast. George H. Cannon  Marine Corps First Lieutenant Sand Island, Midway Atoll December 7, 1941 Refused to be evacuated from his post until after his men, who had been wounded by the same shell that wounded him, were evacuated, and directed the reorganization of his Command Post until forcibly removed.
Pedro 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
Alvin P. Carey  Staff Sergeant near Plougastel, Brittany, France August 23, 1944 Mortally wounded while single-handedly attacking an enemy pillbox
Charles F. Carey Jr.  Technical Sergeant Rimling, France January 8, 1945 – January 9, 1945
Chris Carr Sergeant near Guignola, Italy October 1, 1944 – October 2, 1944
Head and shoulders of a man wearing a peaked cap and a military jacket with a winged pin on the left breast and pins on the lapels. Horace S. Carswell Jr.  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.
Head and shoulders of a black man, with a carefully trimmed mustache, standing erect and staring directly into the camera. He is wearing a peaked cap and a jacket with three rows of ribbon bars and a pin on the left breast, pins on the lapels, and a braided cord over the left shoulder. 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.
Anthony Casamento Marine Corps Corporal Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands November 1, 1942 When all members of his machine gun squad were killed or severely wounded, he continued to man a machine gun, single-handedly holding off a large Japanese force despite multiple wounds himself. He was belatedly awarded the Medal of Honor in 1980.
Frederick W. Castle  Air Forces Brigadier General Germany December 24, 1944
Head and shoulders of a middle-aged white man with a round face wearing a garrison cap and a jacket with four rows of ribbon bars on the left breast and pins on both the lapels and on the collar of the undershirt. Justice M. Chambers Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 – February 22, 1945 Led the 8-hour battle to carry the flanking ridge top and reduce the enemy's fields of aimed fire, thus protecting the vital foothold gained
Ralph Cheli  Air Forces Major near Wewak, New Guinea August 18, 1943
Ernest Childers Army Second Lieutenant Oliveto, Italy September 22, 1943
Clyde L. Choate Staff Sergeant near Bruyeres, France October 25, 1944
Dale E. Christensen  Second Lieutenant Driniumor River, New Guinea July 16, 1944 – July 19, 1944

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty along the Driniumor River, New Guinea, from 16 – July 19, 1944. 2d Lt. Christensen repeatedly distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in the continuous heavy fighting which occurred in this area from 16 – July 19,. On July 16, his platoon engaged in a savage fire fight in which much damage was caused by 1 enemy machine gun effectively placed. 2d Lt. Christensen ordered his men to remain under cover, crept forward under fire, and at a range of 15 yards put the gun out of action with hand grenades. Again, on July 19, while attacking an enemy position strong in mortars and machine guns, his platoon was pinned to the ground by intense fire. Ordering his men to remain under cover, he crept forward alone to locate definitely the enemy automatic weapons and the best direction from which to attack. Although his rifle was struck by enemy fire and knocked from his hands he continued his reconnaissance, located 5 enemy machine guns, destroyed 1 with hand grenades, and rejoined his platoon. He then led his men to the point selected for launching the attack and, calling encouragement, led the charge. This assault was successful and the enemy was driven from the positions with a loss of 4 mortars and 10 machine guns and leaving many dead on the field. On August 4, 1944, near Afua, Dutch New Guinea, 2d Lt. Christensen was killed in action about 2 yards from his objective while leading his platoon in an attack on an enemy machine gun position. 2d Lt. Christensen's leadership, intrepidity, and repeatedly demonstrated gallantry in action at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, exemplify the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Herbert F. Christian  Private near Valmontone, Italy June 2, 1944 – June 3, 1944
Joseph J. Cicchetti  Private First Class South Manila, Luzon, Philippines February 9, 1945
Francis J. Clark Technical Sergeant near Kalborn, Luxembourg and near Sevenig, Germany September 12, 1944 and September 17, 1944
Head and shoulders of an elderly white man wearing glasses and a baseball cap with an image of a star-shaped medal and the words "Medal of Honor recipient". An actual star-shaped medal hangs from a light blue ribbon around his neck, over his dark suit coat and patterned tie. Mike Colalillo Private First Class near Untergriesheim, Germany April 7, 1945
Head and shoulders of a young white man with a broad smile. He is wearing a garrison cap tilted over his right ear and a plain military jacket on top of a shirt and tie. Darrell S. Cole  Marine Corps Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 Namesake of USS Cole (DDG-67).
Head and shoulders of a white man wearing a metal helmet with an oak leaf emblem on the front, the chin strap unbuckled and hanging loose, and a dark, heavy coat. Robert G. Cole  Army Lieutenant Colonel near Carentan, France June 11, 1944 For leading a charge across a field swept by German machine guns and artillery.
Garlin Murl Conner First Lieutenant Houssen, France January 24, 1945
James P. Connor Sergeant Cape Cavalaire, southern France August 15, 1944
Raymond H. Cooley Staff Sergeant near Lumboy, Luzon, Philippines February 24, 1945
Two white men in military dress uniform shaking hands. One is an Older man and on is a young man. Charles H. Coolidge Technical Sergeant East of Belmont sur Buttant, France October 24, 1944 – October 27, 1944

Leading a section of heavy machine guns supported by 1 platoon of Company K, he took a position near Hill 623, east of Belmont sur Buttant, France, on October 24, 1944, with the mission of covering the right flank of the 3d Battalion and supporting its action. T/Sgt. Coolidge went forward with a Sergeant of Company K to reconnoiter positions for coordinating the fires of the light and heavy machine guns. They ran into an enemy force in the woods estimated to be an infantry company. T/Sgt. Coolidge, attempting to bluff the Germans by a show of assurance and boldness called upon them to surrender, whereupon the enemy opened fire. With his carbine, T/Sgt. Coolidge wounded 2 of them. There being no officer present with the force, T/Sgt. Coolidge at once assumed command. Many of the men were replacements recently arrived; this was their first experience under fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge, unmindful of the enemy fire delivered at close range, walked along the position, calming and encouraging his men and directing their fire. The attack was thrown back. Through 25 and October 26, the enemy launched repeated attacks against the position of this combat group but each was repulsed due to T/Sgt. Coolidge's able leadership. On October 27, German infantry, supported by 2 tanks, made a determined attack on the position. The area was swept by enemy small arms, machine gun, and tank fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge armed himself with a bazooka and advanced to within 25 yards of the tanks. His bazooka failed to function and he threw it aside. Securing all the hand grenades he could carry, he crawled forward and inflicted heavy casualties on the advancing enemy. Finally it became apparent that the enemy, in greatly superior force, supported by tanks, would overrun the position. T/Sgt. Coolidge, displaying great coolness and courage, directed and conducted an orderly withdrawal, being himself the last to leave the position. As a result of T/Sgt. Coolidge's heroic and superior leadership, the mission of this combat group was accomplished throughout 4 days of continuous fighting against numerically superior enemy troops in rain and cold and amid dense woods.

Head of a stern-faced young white man with dark hair and full cheeks wearing a dark jacket with ribbon bars of the left breast. Henry A. Courtney Jr.  Marine Corps Major Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 14, 1945 – May 15, 1945 For leading his battalion in a successful night attack up a fiercely defended hill, personally killing many Japanese before he himself was killed.
Richard E. Cowan  Army Private First Class near Krinkelter Wald, Belgium December 17, 1944
Clarence B. Craft Private First Class Hen Hill, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 31, 1945
Robert Craig  Second Lieutenant near Favoratta, Sicily July 11, 1943 Single-handedly destroyed an Italian machine gun nest before laying down covering fire for his entire platoon.
Morris E. Crain  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.
Demas T. Craw  Air Forces Colonel near Port Lyautey, French Morocco November 8, 1942
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 U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1984 graduation.
John R. Crews Staff Sergeant near Lobenbacherhof, Germany April 8, 1945
Head and shoulders of a middle aged white man wearing a white peaked cap with a black visor and a dark jacket over a white shirt and dark tie. On his left breast is a winged pin and a single ribbon bar. 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.
Currey in 1945 Francis S. Currey Army Sergeant Malmedy, Belgium December 21, 1944 Rescued several men and women while destroying a building with enemy soldiers.

D

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Edward C. Dahlgren Army Sergeant Oberhoffen, France February 11, 1945
Peter J. Dalessandro Technical Sergeant near Kalterherberg, Germany December 22, 1944
Michael J. Daly First Lieutenant Nuremberg, Germany April 18, 1945
Head and shoulders of a young white man wearing a peaked cap and a military jacket with large shiny buttons, two chevrons on the upper sleeves, and two medals and two ribbon bars on the left breast. Anthony P. Damato  Marine Corps Corporal Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands February 19, 1944 – February 20, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Head of a middle-aged white man wearing a white peaked cap, wire frame glasses, and a dark jacket over a shirt and tie. 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.
Head of a smiling young man with dark hair wearing a military jacket with pins on the lapel over a shirt and tie. 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.
Charles W. Davis Captain Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands January 12, 1943
Head and shoulders of a white man with carefully combed and parted wavy hair, wearing a dark jacket over a shirt and tie. George F. Davis  Navy Commander USS Walke, Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippines January 6, 1945
Head and shoulders of a middle-aged white man with a subdued smile wearing a garrison cap with two stars on either side and a military jacket with a large array of ribbon bars covering the entire left breast. James L. Day Marine Corps Corporal Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 14, 1945 – May 17, 1945 After most of his Marines were wounded or killed, he manned a machine gun and killed more than 100 enemy soldiers despite multiple wounds over a period of several days. He was belatedly awarded the Medal of Honor in 1998.
Head and shoulders of a white man with a thin mustache wearing a white peaked cap, its black visor decorated with oak leaves, and a white military jacket with dark shoulder boards and one medal and two winged pins on the left breast. Samuel D. Dealey  Navy Commander USS Harder, near Philippines Jun 6, 1944 – Jun 10, 1944
Head and shoulders of a young white man with a peaked cap pushed high up on his forehead, wearing a military jacket with two rows of ribbon bars on the left breast and a star-shaped medal hanging from a ribbon around his neck. Jefferson J. DeBlanc Marine Corps Captain off Kolombangara Island, New Georgia Group, Solomon Islands January 31, 1943 For downing five Japanese aircraft in a single action
Arthur F. DeFranzo  Army Staff Sergeant near Vaubadon, France June 10, 1944
Head and shoulders of a young white man with neatly combed hair wearing a military jacket with a round pin on each lapel over a shirt and tie. Charles N. DeGlopper  Private First Class Merderet River at la Fiere, France June 9, 1944
Emile Deleau Jr.  Sergeant Oberhoffen, France February 1, 1945 – February 2, 1945
Ernest H. Dervishian Technical Sergeant near Cisterna, Italy May 23, 1944
James H. Diamond  Private First Class Mintal, Mindanao, Philippines May 8, 1945 – May 14, 1945
Robert H. Dietz  Staff Sergeant Kirchain, Germany March 29, 1945
Head and shoulders of a balding middle-aged white man wearing a light-colored military jacket with three stars on the shoulder and four rows of ribbon bars and a winged pin on the left breast. Jimmy Doolittle Air Forces Lieutenant Colonel over Japan April 18, 1942 For leading the Doolittle Raid over the Japanese mainland.
Head and shoulders of a young white man with a thin mustache wearing a garrison cap and a military jacket with two rows of ribbon bars and a round pin on the left breast. 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 injured 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. He also saved injured Japanese soldiers.
Jesse R. Drowley Staff Sergeant Bougainville, Solomon Islands January 30, 1944
Head of an older white man with gray hair wearing a dark suit coat over a white shirt. A star-shaped medal hangs from a light-blue ribbon around his neck. Russell E. Dunham Technical Sergeant near Kayserberg, France January 8, 1945
Head and shoulders of a young white man with neatly combed dark hair wearing a light-colored military jacket with three rows of ribbon bars and a parachute pin on the left breast. Robert H. Dunlap Marine Corps Captain Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 20, 1945 – February 21, 1945 Risked his life to gather intelligence about and direct fire on enemy gun positions
John W. Dutko  Army Private First Class near Ponte Rotto, Italy May 23, 1944
Head and shoulders of a white man wearing a garrison cap with an oak leaf on the side and a dark military jacket a row of ribbon bars and two badges on the left breast. Aquilla J. Dyess  Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands February 1, 1944 – February 2, 1944 For leading his battalion in pushing the Japanese out of their positions before he was killed

E

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Merritt A. Edson Marine Corps Colonel Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands September 13, 1942 – September 14, 1942 For successfully leading his battalion in the defense of a vital ridge, inflicting heavy casualties against the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. He was previously awarded two Navy Crosses.
Walter D. Ehlers Army Staff Sergeant near Goville, France June 9, 1944 – June 10, 1944
Henry T. Elrod  Marine Corps Captain Wake Island December 8, 1941 – December 23, 1941 For fearlessly engaging an overwhelming enemy force and single-handedly shooting down two planes and sinking a Japanese warship, before he was killed while leading the beach defenses.
Gerald L. Endl  Army Staff Sergeant near Anamo, New Guinea July 11, 1944
Harold G. Epperson  Marine Corps Private First Class Saipan, Mariana Islands June 25, 1944 For repelling a determined Japanese assault before sacrificing his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Henry E. Erwin Air Forces Staff Sergeant Koriyama, Japan April 12, 1945 For locating and ejecting a burning phosphorus smoke grenade from a B-29 cockpit during a raid on Koriyama, Japan. The burns nearly killed him and left him badly disfigured.
Ray E. Eubanks  Army Sergeant Noemfoor Island, Dutch New Guinea July 23, 1944
Ernest E. Evans  Navy Commander USS Johnston, off Samar October 25, 1944 For heroic actions as captain of the destroyer U.S.S. Johnston during the Battle Off Samar, 25 October 1944. Upon sighting a massive Japanese force of Battleships and Heavy Cruisers transiting to attack General Douglas MacArthur's 200,000 encamped troops at Red Beach, Leyte, Philippines, Commander Evans broke formation and charged his heavily outmatched destroyer directly toward the enemy force, completing a successful torpedo attack that sank one of the Heavy Cruisers and that threw the force into disarray. His courageous actions inspired similar attacks from other destroyers in the task unit, prompting the task unit commander, Rear Admiral Clifton Sprague, to order all destroyers in the task unit to break formation and attack. When enemy shellfire obliterated the bridge of his ship, Commander Evans shifted his command to the fantail, steering the ship by giving orders through an open hatch to men turning the rudder by hand. Despite suffering the severe mutilation of his left hand early in the attack and being covered in blood from his wounds, he continued to outmaneuver and outgun the opposing force in what amounted to almost three hours of combat. The attacking Japanese force was ultimately driven into retreat, preventing a deadly assault on the Army landing forces at Leyte. His ship eventually sank from the battle damage and the remaining survivors endured over 70 hours in shark-infested waters. Commander Evans was not found among the survivors.
Forrest E. Everhart Army Technical Sergeant near Kerling, France November 12, 1944

F

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
John P. Fardy  Marine Corps Corporal Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 7, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Robert E. Femoyer  Air Forces Second Lieutenant over Merseburg, Germany November 2, 1944
James H. Fields Army First Lieutenant Rechicourt, France September 27, 1944
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 Japanese aircraft. Despite numerous painful wounds, he remained at his post and inflicted heavy damage upon the Japanese until ordered to seek medical attention. CPO Finn was the first to receive the Medal of Honor for action in World War II during which the U.S. was neutral.
Almond E. Fisher Army Second Lieutenant near Grammont, France September 12, 1944 – September 13, 1944
Francis C. Flaherty  Navy Ensign Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 During the evacuation of USS Oklahoma, he remained in a turret, holding a flashlight so the remainder of the turret crew could see to escape, thereby sacrificing his own life.
Richard E. Fleming  Marine Corps Captain Midway Atoll June 4, 1942 – June 5, 1942 For taking command after his squadron commander was shot down, leading several attacks on Japanese ships before he himself was shot down.
Eugene B. Fluckey Navy Commander USS Barb, along east coast of China December 19, 1944 – February 15, 1945
Joseph J. Foss Marine Corps Captain over Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands October 9, 1942 – November 19, 1942 and January 1943 For shooting down 26 aircraft as leader of the Flying Circus. Later became 20th Governor of South Dakota. First commissioner of the American Football League.
William A. Foster  Marine Corps Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 2, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
William G. Fournier  Army Sergeant Mount Austen, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands January 10, 1943
Thomas W. Fowler  Second Lieutenant near Carano, Italy May 23, 1944
John R. Fox  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.
Elmer E. Fryar  Private Leyte, Philippines December 8, 1944
Leonard A. Funk Jr. First Sergeant Holzheim [de], Belgium January 29, 1945
Samuel G. Fuqua Navy Lieutenant Commander Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Incapacitated in the initial bombing of USS Arizona, he recovered to direct the fighting of the fires and the rescue of wounded and injured personnel. He stayed on deck through the continuous bombing and strafing, leading in a calm and cool manner that resulted in the saving of many lives.

G

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
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.
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.
Archer T. Gammon  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.
Joe Gandara  Private Amfreville, France June 9, 1944 Advanced voluntarily and alone toward an enemy position and destroyed three hostile machine guns before being fatally wounded.
Marcario Garcia 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.
Harold A. Garman 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.
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.
Robert E. Gerstung Army Technical Sergeant Siegfried Line near Berg, Germany December 19, 1944
Eric G. Gibson  Technician 5th Grade near Isola Bella, Italy January 28, 1944
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.
Harold Gonsalves  Marine Corps Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 15, 1945 While laying telephone lines for communication with the artillery battalion in Okinawa, he saved two other Marines after flinging himself atop of a Japanese grenade and taking the full brunt of the resulting explosion allowing the other two men to complete the mission.
David M. Gonzales  Army Private First Class Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines April 25, 1945 During intense combat, his company was pinned down by enemy machine gun fire. Despite the grave danger, he went to the aid of his fellow soldiers who had been buried in a bomb explosion. Digging them out with his bare hands and a shovel, under continuous enemy fire, he managed to rescue three of the men before being mortally wounded. His selfless actions and sacrifice allowed his unit to continue their advance and contributed significantly to their mission's success.
Nathan G. Gordon Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade Bismarck Sea February 15, 1944 Later Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas
Donald J. Gott  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.
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.
Ross F. Gray  Marine Corps Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 21, 1945 Single-handedly overcame a strong enemy garrison and completely disarmed a large mine field before finally rejoining his unit.
Stephen R. Gregg Army Technical Sergeant near Montelimar, France August 27, 1944
Kenneth E. Gruennert  Sergeant near Buna, New Guinea December 24, 1942
Henry Gurke  Marine Corps Private First Class Bougainville, Solomon Islands November 9, 1943 Fell on a grenade that landed in his foxhole, saving the man with him

H

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
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.
George J. Hall 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.
Lewis Hall  Technician 5th 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.
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.
Sherwood H. Hallman  Army Staff Sergeant Brest, Brittany, France September 13, 1944
William D. Halyburton Jr.  Navy Pharmacist's Mate Second class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 10, 1945 Killed shielding a wounded Marine with his body while administering aid.
Pierpont M. Hamilton Air Forces Major near Port Lyautey, French Morocco November 8, 1942
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.
Dale M. Hansen  Marine Corps Private Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 7, 1945 For destroying two hostile positions with a rocket launcher and hand grenades, killing 12 Japanese
Robert M. Hanson  Marine Corps First Lieutenant Bougainville Island and New Britain Island November 1, 1943 and January 24, 1944 One of the top Marine aces, he shot down a total of 25 enemy aircraft before he himself was shot down and killed. He was also awarded the Navy Cross.
Roy W. Harmon  Army Sergeant near Casaglia, Italy July 12, 1944
Harry R. Harr  Corporal near Maglamin, Mindanao, Philippines June 5, 1945
William G. Harrell Marine Corps Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 3, 1945 Risked his life to defend his position against a larger enemy force
James L. Harris  Army Second Lieutenant Vagney, France October 7, 1944
Mikio Hasemoto  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.
Joe R. Hastings  Private First Class Drabenderhohe, Germany April 12, 1945
Louis J. Hauge Jr.  Marine Corps Corporal Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 14, 1945 For single-handedly charging and knocking out two enemy machine gun positions before he was killed.
John D. Hawk Army Sergeant near Chambois, France August 20, 1944
William D. Hawkins  Marine Corps First Lieutenant Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands November 20, 1943 – November 21, 1943 For leading attacks on multiple enemy positions, knocking five out before he was badly wounded, but persisting in knocking out another three before he was killed.
Lloyd C. Hawks Army Private First Class near Carano, Italy January 30, 1944
Joe Hayashi  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.
Shizuya Hayashi 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.
Clinton M. Hedrick  Technical Sergeant near Lembeck, Germany March 27, 1945 – March 28, 1945
James R. Hendrix Private near Assenois, Belgium December 26, 1944
Robert T. Henry  Private Luchem, Germany December 3, 1944
Silvestre S. Herrera Private First Class near Mertzwiller, France March 15, 1945
Rufus G. Herring Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade as commanding officer aboard a landing craft, USS LCI (G) 449, Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 17, 1945 Maintained position in the firing line with his 20-mm guns in action in the face of sustained enemy fire and conned his crippled ship to safety
Edwin J. Hill  Chief Boatswain Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 During the height of the strafing and bombing of USS Nevada, led his men of the linehandling details to the quays, cast off the lines and swam back to his ship. Back on board, while attempting to let go the anchors, was blown overboard and killed by the explosion of several bombs.
Freeman V. Horner Army Staff Sergeant Wurselen, Germany November 16, 1944 On October 30, 1945, United States Army Officer Freeman V. Horner was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during World War II. During the second World War, Sergeant Freeman Horner and his company were stationed in Nazi Germany. On November 16, 1944, Sergeant Horner and his company were attacking Wurselen, Germany, and were experiencing heavy resistance. He ran into enemy lines thinking he was safe, and immediately had enemy firing at him. He was able to make it all the way over there and was able to destroy over 9 machine guns. He went on to live his life in Columbus, Georgia, with his wife, who cared for him until his death of a brain aneurysm.
James H. Howard 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
Paul B. Huff Army Corporal near Carano, Italy February 8, 1944 February 8, 1944, near Carano, Italy, Huff led a reconnaissance patrol while under heavy fire from German forces. For his actions during the patrol, Huff received the Medal of Honor three months later, on May 26.He led a 6 man patrol into German grounds, and was found in an open fire with the enemy. Knowing the danger, he left his patrol and continued on by himself. He crawled over 75 yards to get to them. He was able to kill them while kneeling with his submachine gun. Before leaving the army, Huff reached the highest enlisted rank, command sergeant major, a position which carried the responsibilities of being the senior enlisted advisor to the commanding officer and a monitor for, and advocate of, the enlisted men in the command. He was survived by his wife, Betty Cunnyngham Huff. Paul Huff Parkway, a major thoroughfare in Cleveland, Tennessee, is named in his honor,as is the Paul B. Huff Army Reserve Center, located in Nashville.
Lloyd Herbert Hughes  Air Forces Second Lieutenant Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943
Johnnie D. Hutchins  Navy Seaman First class aboard a landing ship, USS LST 473, off Lae, New Guinea September 4, 1943

I

[edit]
Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Head and shoulders portrait of an older Asian man wearing a business suit and tie. 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; prior to Kamala Harris becoming Vice President, was the 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. Inouye was attacked by three machine gun nests while advancing up a hill near San Terenzo, Italy. One attacked him wounding his abdomen. He then proceeded, while under fire, to attack two of the nests with grenades and then his Thompson sub-machine gun. While drawing a grenade to attack the third nest, he was hit by some German shrapnel that nearly tore off his right arm. Somehow, he was able to throw the grenade that he picked back up with his left arm into the nest and then continued to use his machine gun to continue to attack the German gunners.

J

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Isadore S. Jachman  Army Staff Sergeant Flamierge, Belgium January 4, 1945
Arthur J. Jackson Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 18, 1944 For single-handedly destroying 12 enemy pillboxes and killing 50 enemy soldiers.
Douglas T. Jacobson Private First Class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 26, 1945 Risked his life by destroying a total of sixteen enemy positions and approximately 75 Japanese
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.
John L. Jerstad  Air Forces Major Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943
Elden H. Johnson  Army Private near Valmontone, Italy June 3, 1944
Leon W. Johnson Air Forces Colonel Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943 A United States Air Force general who was awarded the Medal of Honor for leading the attack on the Ploesti oil fields during World War II. Following the raid on Ploesti, one of the war's costliest aerial encounters for all concerned, Johnson was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Leroy Johnson  Army Sergeant near Limon, Leyte, Philippines December 15, 1944
Oscar G. Johnson Private First Class near Scarperia, Italy September 16, 1944 – September 18, 1944
William J. Johnston Private First Class Anzio, Italy[6] February 17, 1944 – February 19, 1944 Johnston was a machine gunner attached to the Third Platoon of his company and that platoon was the furthest advanced element in the Company's defenses. About eighty Germans advanced under the cover of an artillery barrage in the darkness and were within about 200 yards of the platoon's positions when they were discovered by Johnston who was at his gun. He manned his machine gun and the attack was halted. All during the day, without relief, he remained with his weapon and fired at every target that presented itself. One German worked up the draw so close to the position that the machine gun could not be brought to bear upon him. Johnston drew his pistol and killed him. As the day wore on, it became evident that if the Company was to escape it would have to begin its movement. Not everyone could get out. Johnson volunteered to stay. Afterwards an artillery shell made what almost amounted to a direct hit on Johnston's position and shell fragments penetrated into the left portion of his chest. An examination indicated that he was dying. The rapid advance of large numbers of the Germans prevented any evacuation. A few minutes later one of the last men to withdraw saw Johnston trying to crawl up to his machine gun. At Johnston's request he was helped to his gun and left believing that he was dying. A few minutes later the Company heard the machine gun in action. It continued to fire for about 10 minutes. Afterwards the gun went silent. The Germans passed him as he lay in his position, and, believing him to be dead, stole his shoes. The next day, he painfully worked his way through the German lines to the 180th Regiment, after having been reported by the Company as killed in action. Despite his weakened condition, he gave accurate and vital information about the German positions on the base of which effective firing that was compiled.[6]
Herbert C. Jones  Navy Ensign Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Organized and led a party to supply ammunition to the antiaircraft battery of USS California after the mechanical hoists were put out of action when he was fatally wounded by a bomb explosion. When 2 men attempted to take him from the area, he ordered "Leave me alone! I am done for. Get out of here before the magazines go off."
Joseph R. Julian  Marine Corps Platoon Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 9, 1945 Sacrificed his life to eliminate an enemy threat

K

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Victor L. Kandle  Army First Lieutenant near La Forge, France October 9, 1944
John R. Kane Air Forces Colonel Ploiești Raid, Romania August 1, 1943
Neel E. Kearby Colonel near Wewak, New Guinea October 11, 1943 For facing 12 to 1 odds at low fuel against Lieutenant Colonel Teranishi's force
George D. Keathley  Army Staff Sergeant Mt. Altuzzo, Italy September 14, 1944 After suffering a mortal wound in his left side from a hand grenade, he refused to take cover. He continued to battle the enemy and shout orders to his soldiers. After the platoons of Company B repulsed numerous counterattacks, the enemy withdrew. Staff Sergeant Keathley died shortly after victory was achieved.
Gus Kefurt  Staff Sergeant near Bennwihr, France December 23, 1944 – December 24, 1944
Jonah E. Kelley  Staff Sergeant Kesternich, Germany January 30, 1945 – January 31, 1945
Ova A. Kelley  Private Leyte, Philippines December 8, 1944
Charles E. Kelly Corporal near Altavilla, Italy September 13, 1943
John D. Kelly  Corporal Fort du Roule, Cherbourg, France June 25, 1944
Thomas J. Kelly Corporal Alemert, Germany April 5, 1945
Reinhardt J. Keppler  Navy Boatswain's Mate First class USS San Francisco, Solomon Islands November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942
Dexter J. Kerstetter Army Private First Class near Galiano, Luzon, Philippines April 13, 1945
Patrick L. Kessler  Private First Class near Ponte Rotto, Italy May 23, 1944
Isaac C. Kidd  Navy Rear Admiral Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Remained on the bridge of USS Arizona, discharging his duties as Commander of Battleship Division One and Senior Officer Present Afloat even as the ship blew up from magazine explosions, until a direct bomb hit on the bridge resulted in the loss of his life.
Truman Kimbro  Army Technician 4th Grade near Rocherath, Belgium December 19, 1944 After repeated attempts to take his squad across a road to lay mines were repulsed by withering fire, Kimbro ordered his squad to stay behind while he crawled across the road alone. Seriously wounded in his advance, Kimbro was able to successfully lay mines on the other side of the road, which helped delay the advance of enemy armor. While trying to return to his squad, Kimbro was killed by intense enemy machine gun and rifle fire.
Harold G. Kiner  Private near Palenberg, Germany October 2, 1944
David R. Kingsley  Air Forces Second Lieutenant Ploiești Raid, Romania June 23, 1944 Sacrificed himself by giving away his parachute to the injured tailgunner of his crew whose parachute was lost. He then died when his B-17 crashed
Elbert L. Kinser  Marine Corps Sergeant Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 4, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Gerry H. Kisters Army Sergeant near Gagliano, Sicily July 31, 1943
Alton W. Knappenberger Private First Class near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy February 1, 1944
Jack L. Knight  First Lieutenant near LoiKang, Burma February 2, 1945
Raymond L. Knight  Air Forces First Lieutenant northern Po Valley, Italy April 24, 1945 – April 25, 1945
Yeiki Kobashigawa Army Technical Sergeant near Lanuvio, Italy June 2, 1944 Destroyed multiple enemy machine gun nests in the vicinity of Lanuvio, Italy. 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.
Richard E. Kraus  Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group October 3, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Anthony L. Krotiak  Army Private First Class Balete Pass, Luzon, Philippines May 8, 1945
Robert T. Kuroda  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

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
James D. La Belle  Marine Corps Private First Class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 8, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Salvador J. Lara Army Staff Sergeant Aprilia, Italy May 27, 1944May 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.
Elderly white man wearing a suit, tie, and glasses, with a medal hanging from a ribbon around his neck. William R. Lawley Jr. Air Forces First Lieutenant over Europe February 20, 1944
Robert E. Laws Army Staff Sergeant Pangasinan Province, Luzon, Philippines January 12, 1945
Daniel W. Lee Second Lieutenant Montreval, France September 2, 1944
John H. Leims Marine Corps Second Lieutenant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 7, 1945 Risked his life to rescue several wounded Marines
Turney W. Leonard  Army First Lieutenant Kommerscheidt, Germany November 4, 1944 – November 6, 1944
WilliamFLeonard243 William F. Leonard 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.
Fred F. Lester  Navy Hospital Apprentice First class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 8, 1945
Darrell R. Lindsey  Air Forces Captain L'Isle Adam railroad bridge over the Seine, France August 9, 1944
Jake W. Lindsey Army Technical Sergeant near Hamich, Germany November 16, 1944
Floyd K. Lindstrom  Private First Class near Mignano, Italy November 11, 1943
Edgar H. Lloyd  First Lieutenant near Pompey, France September 14, 1944
Donald R. Lobaugh  Private near Afua, New Guinea July 22, 1944
James M. Logan Sergeant near Salerno, Italy September 9, 1943
Jose M. Lopez Sergeant near Krinkelt, Belgium December 17, 1944
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)
Jack Lummus  Marine Corps First Lieutenant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 8, 1945 Had earlier played football for the New York Giants

M

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
George L. Mabry Jr. Army Lieutenant Colonel Hurtgen Forest near Schevenhütte, Germany November 20, 1944
Douglas MacArthur 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.
Charles A. MacGillivary Sergeant near Woelfling, France January 1, 1945 Immigrant from Canada.
John D. Magrath  Private First Class near Castel d'Aiano, Italy April 14, 1945
Joe E. Mann  Private First Class Best, Holland September 18, 1944
Harry L. Martin  Marine Corps First Lieutenant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 26, 1945 Sacrificed his life to help rescue some of his men who had been overrun by the enemy.
Joe P. Martinez  Army Private Attu, Aleutians May 26, 1943 First private to earn the medal in World War II and the first and only soldier to earn such medal in a battle that occurred on American soil
Leonard F. Mason  Marine Corps Private First Class Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands July 22, 1944 For single-handedly knocking out two enemy machine guns despite being mortally wounded
Archibald Mathies  Air Forces Sergeant over Germany February 20, 1944
Jack W. Mathis  First Lieutenant over Vegesack, Germany March 18, 1943
Robert D. Maxwell Army Technician 5th Grade near Besançon, France September 7, 1944
Martin O. May  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.
Melvin Mayfield 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.
Thomas E. McCall Staff Sergeant near San Angelo, Italy January 22, 1944
David McCampbell Navy Commander First and second battles of the Philippine Sea June 19, 1944 Top Navy flying ace with 34 kills, was also awarded the Navy Cross
Bruce McCandless Commander Battle off Savo Island November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942
Robert H. McCard  Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Saipan, Mariana Islands June 16, 1944 For saving the lives of his tank crewmen.
Lloyd G. McCarter Army Private Corregidor, Philippines February 16, 1945 – February 19, 1945
Joseph J. McCarthy Marine Corps Captain Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 21, 1945 Risked his life to eliminate several enemy troops so his men could move forward
Richard M. McCool Navy Lieutenant off Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 10, 1945 – June 11, 1945 Off the coast of Okinawa Island, McCool helped rescue the survivors of sinking destroyer USS William D. Porter. The next day, his own ship was hit by a Japanese kamikaze. Although he suffered severe burns and shrapnel wounds in the initial explosion, McCool continued to lead his crew in the firefighting and rescue efforts until relief arrived.
Charles L. McGaha Army Master Sergeant near Lupao, Luzon, Philippines February 7, 1945
Vernon McGarity Technical Sergeant near Krinkelt, Belgium December 16, 1944
William D. McGee  Private near Mulheim, Germany March 18, 1945
Troy A. McGill  Sergeant Los Negros Islands, Admiralty Group March 4, 1944
Francis X. McGraw  Private First Class near Schevenhütte, Germany November 19, 1944
Thomas B. McGuire Jr.  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.
John R. McKinney Army Private Tayabas Province, Luzon, Philippines May 11, 1945
Robert M. McTureous Jr.  Marine Corps Private Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 7, 1945 For attacking multiple enemy positions with hand grenades, diverting fire away from stretcher-bearers before he was fatally wounded
John J. McVeigh  Army Sergeant near Brest, France August 29, 1944
William A. McWhorter  Private First Class Leyte, Philippines December 5, 1944
John W. Meagher Technical Sergeant near Ozato, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands June 19, 1945
Manuel V. Mendoza Master Sergeant Mt. Battaglia, Italy October 4, 1944 Single-handedly broke up a German counterattack.
Gino J. Merli 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.
Joseph F. Merrell  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.
Harold O. Messerschmidt  Sergeant near Radden, France September 17, 1944
William E. Metzger Jr.  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.
Portrait of a gray-haired white man wearing a dark blue suit and tie Edward S. Michael First Lieutenant over Germany April 11, 1944
Harry J. Michael  Army Second Lieutenant near Neiderzerf, Germany March 14, 1945
Andrew Miller  Staff Sergeant from Woippy, France to Kerprich Hemmersdorf, Germany November 16, 1944 – November 29, 1944
James H. Mills Private near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy May 24, 1944
John W. Minick  Staff Sergeant near Hurtgen, Germany November 21, 1944
Nicholas Minue  Private near MedjezelBab, Tunisia April 28, 1943
Jimmie W. Monteith Jr.  First Lieutenant near Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, France June 6, 1944
Jack C. Montgomery First Lieutenant near, Padiglione, Italy February 22, 1944
Harold H. Moon Jr.  Private Pawig, Leyte, Philippines October 21, 1944
John C. Morgan Air Forces Second Lieutenant over Germany July 28, 1943
Edward J. Moskala  Army Private First Class Kakazu Ridge, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 9, 1945
Kaoru Moto 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.

Charles E. Mower  Sergeant near Capoocan, Leyte, Philippines November 3, 1944
Joseph E. Muller  Sergeant near Ishimmi, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 15, 1945 – May 16, 1945
Sadao S. Munemori  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.
Douglas A. Munro  Coast Guard Signalman First class off Point Cruz, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands September 27, 1942 Only member of the Coast Guard to receive the Medal of Honor.
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.
Audie L. Murphy Second Lieutenant near Holtzwihr, France January 26, 1945

One of the most decorated American combat soldiers of World War II, receiving every military combat award for valor available from the U.S. Army, as well as French and Belgian awards for heroism.

Frederick C. Murphy  Private First Class Siegfried Line at Saarlautern, Germany March 18, 1945
Head and shoulders of an elderly white man with a round face, wearing a tuxedo with military medals pinned to the chest and one medal hanging from a light blue ribbon around his neck. Charles P. Murray Jr. First Lieutenant near Kaysersberg, France December 16, 1944

N

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Masato 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.
Shinyei Nakamine  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.
Head of a smiling young man wearing a peaked cap with a round medallion on the front and a military jacket over a shirt and tie. William K. Nakamura  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.
William L. Nelson  Sergeant Djebel Dardys, Northwest of Sedjenane, Tunisia April 24, 1943
Ralph G. Neppel Sergeant Birgel, Germany December 14, 1944 Upon returning to America after World War II, Ralph George Neppel received the Medal of Honor for continuing to man his machine gun during the Battle of the Bulge after German fire severed his leg. By staying at his post during the battle he helped destroy German reserves who were thrown at American forces. After he was discharged from the military he returned to Iowa.

Neppel passed away at the age of 63 in 1987.

Robert B. Nett First Lieutenant near Cognon, Leyte, Philippines December 14, 1944
John D. New  Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 25, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Beryl R. Newman Army First Lieutenant near Cisterna, Italy May 26, 1944 For single-handedly destroying three machine gun emplacements.
Alfred B. Nietzel  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.
Alexander R. Nininger  Second Lieutenant near Abucay, Bataan, Philippines January 12, 1942
Head and shoulders of a smiling young man with dimples and round wire-framed glasses wearing a garrison cap and a military jacket over a shirt and tie. Joe M. Nishimoto  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

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
William J. O'Brien  Army Lieutenant Colonel Saipan, Mariana Islands June 20, 1944 – July 7, 1944
Joseph T. O'Callahan Navy Lieutenant Commander near Kobe, Japan March 19, 1945 Chaplain aboard aircraft carrier USS Franklin.
Carlos C. Ogden Army First Lieutenant near Fort du Roule, France June 25, 1944
Edward H. O'Hare Navy Lieutenant off Papua New Guinea February 20, 1942 O'Hare International Airport in Chicago was named in his memory.
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.
Richard H. O'Kane Navy Commander Philippines October 23, 1944 – October 24, 1944 For submarine operations as commanding officer of the U.S.S. Tang operating against two enemy Japanese convoys. Maneuvering on the surface into the midst of a heavily escorted convoy, O'Kane landed hits on three tankers, swung his ship to fire at a freighter and shot out of the path of an onrushing transport. Boxed in by blazing tankers, a freighter, transport, and several destroyers, he blasted two of the targets and cleared the area. Twenty-four hours later, he made contact with another heavily escorted convoy. In the midst of relentless enemy fire, he sent two torpedoes into the first and second transports and an adjacent tanker. He charged the enemy at high speed, exploding the tanker in a burst of flame, smashing the transport dead in the water, and blasting the destroyer. He fired his last two torpedoes at the remnants of the convoy before the second torpedo malfunctioned, performing a circular run and hitting the Tang in the stern. O'Kane along with eight officers survived the sinking. He remained a Japanese prisoner-of-war until 1945.
Head and shoulders of a young man with a bright smile and neatly combed hair wearing what appears to be a graduation gown over a shirt and tie. James K. Okubo  Army Technician 5th 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.
Head and shoulders of an elderly man wearing a white button shirt with an emblem on the left breast bearing the text "442" and "GO FOR BROKE". Yukio Okutsu 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.
Arlo L. Olson  Captain crossing of the Volturno River, Italy October 13, 1943
Truman O. Olson  Sergeant near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy January 30, 1944 – January 31, 1944
Head and shoulders of a young man with a garrison cap tilted over his right ear wearing a scarf tied around his neck and a military jacket with three ribbon bars and a pin on the left breast. Written over the lower right of the photo are the words "Your pal always, Frank". Frank H. Ono  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.
Nicholas Oresko 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.
Head and shoulders of a young man wearing a garrison cap and a military jacket with three chevrons on the upper left sleeve and a whistle hanging from a chain attached to his right shoulder. In the top left corner of the photo is written "To Mom & Dad" and in the lower right "your son! Kazuo". Kazuo Otani  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.
Robert A. Owens  Marine Corps Sergeant Cape Torokina, Bougainville, Solomon Islands November 1, 1943 Charged an enemy bunker housing a 75-mm. gun which was inflicting heavy casualties on the landing force, throwing himself through the gunport, and chasing the crew out of the bunker before he was killed.
Joseph W. Ozbourn  Private Tinian, Mariana Islands July 30, 1944 Private Ozbourn saved the lives of four fellow Marines by jumping on the top of a live hand grenade.

P

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Mitchell Paige Marine Corps Platoon Sergeant Battle for Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands October 26, 1942 For manning several machine guns after all of his men were killed or wounded, holding off a large Japanese force before leading a bayonet charge
John J. Parle  Navy Ensign aboard a landing ship, USS LST 375, off Sicily July 9, 1943 – July 10, 1943
Laverne Parrish  Army Technician 4th Grade Binalonan, Luzon, Philippines January 18, 1945 – January 24, 1945
Harl Pease Jr.  Air Forces Captain near Rabaul, New Britain August 6, 1942 – August 7, 1942
Forrest E. Peden  Army Technician 5th Grade near Biesheim, France February 3, 1945 Forrest Peden enlisted into the army in February 1943, and by February 3, 1945 he was serving as a Technician 5th Grade in Battery C. While in action that day, he had a traumatic experience causing death among his unit. They were ambushed by a larger enemy force. Peden ran for help even though there were enemies firing intensely upon. He ended up finding an allied tank, before leading it back to the site but died when the tank was hit by hostile fire. He received the medal for his actions to protect his unit from heavy fire.
Jack J. Pendleton  Staff Sergeant Bardenberg, Germany October 12, 1944
Frank D. Peregory  Technical Sergeant Grandcampe, France June 8, 1944 On D-Day +2, Sgt Frank D. Peregory chose to singlehandedly assault the heavily fortified and protected French village of Grandcampe-les-Bains (Point-du-Hoc Sector), Normandy. The strong point objective had previously received, firstly, a barrage from an allied cruiser off the Normandy coast, before heavy artillery and tank fire – all to no avail. It was after this that Sgt Peregory made his way up the hill (strong point approach), under heavy fire. He successfully negotiated the hill approach and entered a trench killing eight enemy and capturing three. After passing the prisoners onto command, he re-entered the trench at a point further along towards the strong point. According to witnesses in Peregory's company, after considerable time, Sgt Peregory eventually reappeared from out of the trenches with thirty-two German prisoners. Fellow soldiers who witnessed Sgt Peregory's actions, state that he had used hand grenades in the incursion (having no rifle or handgun on his person), before the remaining Germans surrendered. The 116th Infantry (of which Sgt Peregory was contingent), was reassigned two days after actions at Grandcampe-les-Bains, on the 13th June. The following day, Sgt Peregory assaulted an enemy machine gun position and was killed in action. The medal that was meant to be awarded in person, was awarded posthumously.
Manuel Perez Jr.  Private First Class Fort William McKinley, Luzon, Philippines February 13, 1945
George J. Peters  Private near Fluren, Germany March 24, 1945
George Peterson  Staff Sergeant near Eisern, Germany March 30, 1945
Oscar V. Peterson  Navy Chief Watertender USS Neosho, Battle of the Coral Sea May 7, 1942
Frank J. Petrarca  Army Private First Class Horseshoe Hill, New Georgia, Solomon Islands July 27, 1943
Jackson C. Pharris Navy Gunner Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii December 7, 1941 In charge of an ordnance repair party on USS California, severely injured by explosions and twice rendered unconscious by nauseous oil fumes while setting up a hand-supply ammunition train for the antiaircraft guns, ordering shipfitters to counterflood to address a list (keeping the California in action), repeatedly entered flooding compartments to drag unconscious shipmates to safety.
Wesley Phelps  Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group October 4, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
George Phillips  Private Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 14, 1945 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Francis J. Pierce Navy Pharmacist's Mate First class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 15, 1945 – March 16, 1945 Risked his life to save several wounded Marines and volunteered for a mission to eliminate an enemy threat
John J. Pinder Jr.  Army Technician 5th Grade near Colleville-sur-Mer, France June 6, 1944
Everett P. Pope Marine Corps Captain Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 19, 1944 – September 20, 1944 For leading his company in the capture of a steep coral hill and holding it throughout the night despite repeated enemy attacks and the loss of most of his men
John V. Power  Marine Corps First Lieutenant Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands February 1, 1944 Although painfully wounded, he charged an enemy position and was killed in the doorway of a pillbox.
John J. Powers  Navy Lieutenant over the Coral Sea and adjacent waters May 4, 1942 – May 8, 1942
Leo J. Powers Army Private First Class northwest of Cassino, Italy February 3, 1944
Arthur M. Preston Navy Lieutenant Wasile Bay, Halmahera Island September 16, 1944 Lt. Comdr. (then Lieutenant) Preston received The Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commander, Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron 33, while effecting the rescue of a Navy pilot shot down in Wasile Bay, Halmahera Island, less than 200 yards from a strongly defended Japanese dock and supply area, September 16, 1944. Volunteering for a perilous mission unsuccessfully attempted by the pilot's squadron mates and a PBY plane, Lt. Comdr. (then Lieutenant) Preston led PT-489 and PT-363 through 60 miles of restricted, heavily mined waters. Twice turned back while running the gauntlet of fire from powerful coastal defense guns guarding the 11-mile strait at the entrance to the bay, he was again turned back by furious fire in the immediate area of the downed airman. Aided by an aircraft smoke screen, he finally succeeded in reaching his objective and, under vicious fire delivered at 150-yard range, took the pilot aboard and cleared the area, sinking a small hostile cargo vessel with 40-mm. fire during retirement. Increasingly vulnerable when covering aircraft were forced to leave because of insufficient fuel, Lt. Comdr. Preston raced PT boats 489 and 363 at high speed for 20 minutes through shell-splashed water and across minefields to safety. Under continuous fire for 2+12 hours, Lt. Comdr. Preston successfully achieved a mission considered suicidal in its tremendous hazards, and brought his boats through without personnel casualties and with but superficial damage from shrapnel. His exceptional daring and great personal valor enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Ernest W. Prussman  Army Private First Class near Les Coates, Brittany, France September 8, 1944
Donald D. Pucket  Air Forces First Lieutenant Ploiești Raid, Romania July 9, 1944

R

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Lawson P. Ramage Navy Commander USS Parche, south of Taiwan July 31, 1944 Sunk enemy ships in gallant action.
Bernard J. Ray  Army First Lieutenant Hurtgen Forest near Schevenhütte, Germany November 17, 1944
James W. Reese  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.
John N. Reese Jr.  Private First Class Paco Railroad Station, Manila, Philippines February 9, 1945 Private First Class John N. Reese Jr was engaged in the attack on the Paco Railroad Station, which was strongly defended by 300 determined enemy soldiers with machine guns and rifles, supported by several pillboxes, three 20mm. guns, one 37-mm. gun and heavy mortars.

His platoon was halted 100 yards from the station by intense enemy fire. On his own initiative, he left the platoon, accompanied by a comrade, and continued forward to a house 60 yards from the objective. Although under constant enemy observation, the two men remained in this position for an hour, firing at targets of opportunity, killing more than 35 Japanese and wounding many more. Moving closer to the station and discovering a group of Japanese replacements attempting to reach pillboxes, they opened heavy fire, killed more than 40 and stopped all subsequent attempts to man the emplacements. Enemy fire became more intense as they advanced to within 20 yards of the station. From that point Pfc. Reese provided effective covering fire and courageously drew enemy fire to himself while his companion killed seven Japanese and destroyed a 20-mm. gun and heavy machine gun with hand grenades. With their ammunition running low, the two men started to return to the American lines, alternately providing covering fire for each other as they withdrew. During this movement, Pfc. Reese was killed by enemy fire as he reloaded his rifle. The intrepid team, in two and one-half hours of fierce fighting, killed more than 82 Japanese, completely disorganized their defense and paved the way for subsequent complete defeat of the enemy at this strong point.[7]

Thomas J. Reeves  Navy Chief Radioman USS California, Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941 After the mechanized ammunition hoists were put out of action in USS California, in a burning passageway, assisted in ammunition supply by hand to the antiaircraft guns until he was killed by smoke and fire.
Milton E. Ricketts  Lieutenant USS Yorktown, Battle of the Coral Sea May 8, 1942
Paul F. Riordan  Army Second Lieutenant near Cassino, Italy February 3, 1944 – February 8, 1944
Ruben Rivers  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's tank was hit, killing him and wounding the crew."
Charles H. Roan  Marine Corps Private First Class Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 18, 1944 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
James E. Robinson Jr.  Army First Lieutenant near Untergriesheim, Germany April 6, 1945
Cleto L. Rodriguez Private Paco Railroad Station, Manila, Philippines February 9, 1945
Robert E. Roeder  Captain Mt. Battaglia, Italy September 27, 1944 – September 28, 1944
Albert H. Rooks  Navy Captain USS Houston on the Java Sea 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.
Theodore 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.
Donald K. Ross Navy Machinist Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii December 7, 1941 Forced his men to leave the untenable forward dynamo room of USS Nevada and performed all the duties himself until unconscious, returned to dynamo room after being resuscitated, worked the after dynamo room until unconscious, recovered and returned to his station until directed to abandon it.
Wilburn K. Ross Army Private near St. Jacques, France October 30, 1944
Carlton R. Rouh Marine Corps First Lieutenant Peleliu Island, Palau Group September 15, 1944 For risking his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Donald E. Rudolph Army Technical Sergeant Munoz, Luzon, Philippines February 5, 1945 For destroying 8 pillboxes, a trench and a tank while under fire.
Donald J. Ruhl  Marine Corps Private First Class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 – February 21, 1945 Saved several of his fellow Marines by sacrificing his life and diving on an enemy grenade
Alejandro R. Ruiz Army Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands April 28, 1945

S

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Joseph J. Sadowski  Army Sergeant Valhey, France September 14, 1944
Head and shoulders of a smiling young man wearing a peaked cap and, over a shirt and tie, a military jacket with a round pin on each lapel. George T. Sakato 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.
Benjamin L. Salomon  Captain Saipan, Mariana Islands July 7, 1944 Ben L. Salomon was treating patients when Japanese soldiers came inside the tent, Salomon picked up a M1 Garand and shot the first one, stabbed the second one with a bayonet, stabbed the third one with a knife and butted the fourth in the stomach, who was then killed by a wounded patient with an M1911 pistol. Salomon ordered the retreat of the wounded soldiers to the nearby medical station and he gave them cover by firing a M1917 Browning machine gun at the charging Japanese soldiers. A few days later, an army team found him with 98 dead Japanese soldiers in front of his body. Salomon had 76 bullet wounds and bayonet ones, of which he had received 24 while he was still alive. After repeated recommendations were denied, he was finally awarded the medal of honor posthumously in 2002.
Joseph R. Sarnoski  Air Forces Second Lieutenant over Buka area, Solomon Islands June 16, 1943 On 16 June 1943, 2d Lt. Sarnoski volunteered as bombardier of a crew on an important photographic mapping mission covering the defended Buka area, and Solomon Islands. When the mission was nearly completed about 20 enemy fighters got in the way. At the nose guns 2d Lt. Sarnoski fought off the first attackers, making it possible for the pilot to finish the course. When a coordinated frontal attack by the enemy severely damaged his bomber and seriously injured five of the crew, 2d Lt. Sarnoski though wounded continued to fire and shoot down two enemy planes. With his fighting spirit after he had gotten knocked down he crawled back up to his spot to continue on fighting. Second Lt. Sarnoski, by resolute the defense of his aircraft at the price of his life made it possible for the mission to be complete.
Foster J. Sayers  Army Private First Class near Thionville, France November 12, 1944 "During an attack on strong hostile forces entrenched on a hill he fearlessly ran up the steep approach toward his objective and set up his machine gun 20 yards from the enemy. Then he realized it would be necessary to attract full attention of the dug in Germans while his company crossed an open area and flanked the enemy, and he picked up his gun charged through the crazy machine gun and rifle fire to the very edge of the emplacement, and there killed 12 German soldiers with a devastating close range fire. He took up a position behind a log and engaged the hostile infantry from the flank in an heroic attempt to distract their attention while his comrades attained their objective at the bottom of the hill. He was killed by the very heavy concentration of return fire but his fearless assault enabled his company to sweep the hill with a minimum of casualties, killing or capturing every enemy soldier on it. Sayers's indomitable fighting spirit, aggressiveness, and supreme devotion to duty live on as an example of the highest traditions of the military service."[8]
Joseph E. Schaefer Staff Sergeant near Stolberg, Germany September 24, 1944
Henry Schauer Private First Class near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy May 23, 1944 – May 24, 1944
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.
Albert E. Schwab  Marine Corps Private First Class Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 7, 1945 For single-handedly destroying two Japanese machine gun positions with a flamethrower before he was killed
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.
Norman Scott  Navy Rear Admiral off Savo Island October 11, 1942 – October 12, 1942 and November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942
Robert R. Scott  Machinist's Mate First class Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 When his battle station compartment flooded on USS California, site of an air compressor for the guns, Scott refused to leave as "This is my station and I will stay and give them air as long as the guns are going."
Robert S. Scott Army First Lieutenant near Munda Air Strip, New Georgia, Solomon Islands July 29, 1943 For single-handedly defeating a Japanese patrol.
Charles W. Shea Second Lieutenant near Mount Damiano, Italy May 12, 1944
Carl V. Sheridan  Private First Class Frenzenberg Castle, Weisweiler, Germany November 26, 1944
William R. Shockley  Private First Class Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines March 31, 1945
William A. Shomo Air Forces Major over Luzon, Philippines January 11, 1945 7 victories in one action
Curtis F. Shoup  Army Staff Sergeant near Tillet, Belgium January 7, 1945
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)
Franklin E. Sigler Private Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 14, 1945 Led a charge against an enemy gun installation which had held up the advance of his company for several days
Edward A. Silk Army First Lieutenant near St. Pravel, France November 23, 1944
John C. Sjogren Staff Sergeant near San Jose Hacienda, Negros, Philippines May 23, 1945
Luther Skaggs Jr. Marine Corps Private First Class Asan-Adelup beachhead, Guam, Mariana Islands July 21, 1944 – July 22, 1944 Despite losing part of his leg to a grenade, he continued to maintain his position in his foxhole, fighting the enemy for eight more hours
James D. Slaton Army Corporal near Oliveto, Italy September 23, 1943
Furman L. Smith  Private near Lanuvio, Italy May 31, 1944
John L. Smith Marine Corps Major Solomon Islands area August 1942 – September 1942 Led his squadron in shooting down 83 enemy aircraft during this period, he himself shot down 19 planes
Maynard H. Smith 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.
Head and shoulders of a white man wearing a garrison cap tilted over his right ear and a military jacket with a badge and two ribbon bars on the left breast. William A. Soderman Army Private First Class near Rocherath, Belgium December 17, 1944
Richard K. Sorenson Marine Corps Private Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands February 1, 1944 – February 2, 1944 For risking his life by smothering a grenade with his body
Joe C. Specker  Army Sergeant Mount Porchia, Italy January 7, 1944
Junior J. Spurrier Staff Sergeant Achain, France November 13, 1944
John C. Squires  Private First Class near Padiglione, Italy April 23, 1944 – April 24, 1944
Tony Stein  Marine Corps Corporal Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 19, 1945 First Medal of Honor of Iwo Jima
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.
Stuart S. Stryker  Army Private First Class near Wesel, Germany March 24, 1945
James E. Swett Marine Corps First Lieutenant Solomon Islands area April 7, 1943 For downing eight Japanese Vals off the coast of Guadalcanal

T

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Head and torso of a serious faced man wearing a garrison cap and a military jacket with bright buttons and a patch and stripes on the upper sleeve. 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.
Seymour W. Terry  Captain Zebra Hill, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands May 11, 1945
Charles L. Thomas  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.
Herbert J. Thomas  Marine Corps Sergeant Koromokina River, Bougainville, Solomon Islands November 7, 1943 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
William H. Thomas  Army Private First Class Zambales Mountains, Luzon, Philippines April 22, 1945
Clyde A. Thomason  Marine Corps Sergeant Makin Atoll August 17, 1942 – August 18, 1942 For leading Marines during the Makin Island raid. He was the first enlisted Marine to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions during World War II.
Max Thompson Army Sergeant near Haaren, Germany October 18, 1944
Horace M. Thorne  Corporal near Grufflingen, Belgium December 21, 1944
John F. Thorson  Private First Class Dagami, Leyte, Philippines October 28, 1944
Grant F. Timmerman  Marine Corps Sergeant Saipan, Mariana Islands July 8, 1944 Sacrificed his life to prevent an enemy grenade from falling through the open hatch of his tank
Peter Tomich  Navy Chief Watertender USS Utah (BB-31), Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Although realizing that USS Utah was capsizing, remained at his post in the engineering plant until he saw that all boilers were secured and all fireroom personnel had left their stations.
John J. Tominac Army First Lieutenant Saulx de Vesoul, France September 12, 1944
John R. Towle  Private near Oosterhout, Holland September 21, 1944
Jack L. Treadwell First Lieutenant near Nieder-Wurzbach, Germany March 18, 1945
Walter E. Truemper  Air Forces Second Lieutenant over Germany February 20, 1944
Day G. Turner  Army Sergeant Dahl, Luxembourg January 8, 1945
George B. Turner Private First Class Philippsbourg, France January 3, 1945 – January 4, 1945

U

[edit]
Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Matt 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

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Jose F. Valdez  Army Private First Class near Rosenkrantz, France January 25, 1945
Junior Van Noy  Private near Finschafen, New Guinea October 17, 1943
Franklin Van Valkenburgh  Navy Captain Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 Commanding officer of the USS Arizona.
Bruce A. Van Voorhis  Commander Greenwich Island, battle of the Solomon Islands July 6, 1943 His citation reads as follows: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Squadron Commander of Bombing Squadron 102 and as Plane Commander of a PB4Y-I Patrol Bomber operating against the enemy on Japanese-held Greenwich Island during the battle of the Solomon Islands, 6 July 1943. Fully aware of the limited chance of surviving an urgent mission, voluntarily undertaken to prevent a surprise Japanese attack against our forces, Lieutenant Commander Van Voorhis took off in total darkness on a perilous 700-mile flight without escort or support. Successful in reaching his objective despite treacherous and varying winds, low visibility and difficult terrain, he fought a lone but relentless battle under fierce antiaircraft fire and overwhelming aerial opposition. Forced lower and lower by pursuing planes, he coolly persisted in his mission of destruction. Abandoning all chance of a safe return he executed 6 bold ground-level attacks to demolish the enemy's vital radio station, installations, antiaircraft guns and crews with bombs and machine gun fire, and to destroy 1 fighter plane in the air and 3 on the water. Caught in his own bomb blast, Commander Van Voorhis crashed into the lagoon off the beach, sacrificing himself in a single-handed fight against almost insuperable odds, to make a distinctive contribution to our continued offensive in driving the Japanese from the Solomons and, by his superb daring, courage and resoluteness of purpose, enhanced the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."
Leon R. Vance Jr.  Air Forces Lieutenant Colonel over Wimereaux, France June 5, 1944 Died in unrelated air crash before receiving his Medal.
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.
Robert M. Viale  Army Second Lieutenant Manila, Luzon, Philippines February 5, 1945
Ysmael R. Villegas  Staff Sergeant Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines March 20, 1945
Dirk J. Vlug Private First Class near Limon, Leyte, Philippines December 15, 1944
Forrest L. Vosler Air Forces Technical Sergeant over Bremen, Germany December 20, 1943

W

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
George E. Wahlen Navy Pharmacist's Mate Second class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 3, 1945 Although seriously wounded he risked his life to save the lives of several Marines
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.
Jonathan M. Wainwright, IV 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.
Kenneth N. Walker  Air Forces Brigadier General Rabaul, New Britain January 5, 1943 For Conspicuous Leadership above and beyond the call of Duty
Herman C. Wallace  Army Private First Class near Prümzurlay, Germany February 27, 1945
Kenneth A. Walsh Marine Corps First Lieutenant Solomon Islands area August 15, 1943 and August 30, 1943 One of the top Marine fighter aces of the war with 21 kills
William G. Walsh  Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 27, 1945 For leading his Marines in a fierce assault on an enemy held ridge before he sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
James R. Ward  Navy Seaman First Class Pearl Harbor, Hawaii December 7, 1941 During evacuation of USS Oklahoma, remained in a turret, holding a flashlight so the remainder of the turret crew could see to escape, thereby sacrificing his own life.
Keith L. Ware Army Lieutenant Colonel near Sigolsheim, France December 26, 1944
Henry F. Warner  Corporal near Dom Butgenbach, Belgium December 20, 1944 – December 21, 1944
George Watson  Private at sea near New Guinea March 8, 1943 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.
Wilson D. Watson Marine Corps Private Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 26, 1945 – February 27, 1945 Risked his life fighting the enemy single-handedly for 15 minutes until his platoon could catch up to him, personally killing 60 of the enemy
Robert T. Waugh  Army First Lieutenant near Tremensucli, Italy May 11, 1944 – May 14, 1944
David C. Waybur First Lieutenant near Agrigento, Sicily July 17, 1943 Led his patrol in holding off an Italian tank attack despite severe wounds. He later returned to combat and was killed in 1945
Ellis R. Weicht  Sergeant St. Hippolyte, France December 3, 1944
Walter C. Wetzel  Private First Class Birken, Germany April 3, 1945
Eli L. Whiteley First Lieutenant Sigolsheim, France December 27, 1944
Hulon B. Whittington Sergeant near Grimesnil, France July 29, 1944
Paul J. Wiedorfer Private near, Chaumont, Belgium December 25, 1944
Thomas W. Wigle  Second Lieutenant Monte Frassino, Italy September 14, 1944
William H. Wilbur Colonel Fedala, Morocco November 8, 1942
Edward G. Wilkin  Corporal Siegfried Line in Germany March 18, 1945
Raymond H. Wilkins  Air Forces Major near Rabaul, New Britain November 2, 1943
Walter J. Will  Army First Lieutenant near Eisern, Germany March 30, 1945 Despite being wounded numerous times: rescued three wounded men, single-handedly neutralized two enemy machine gun nests, and went on to lead his squad to capture two more before being killed in another charge.
Hershel W. Williams Marine Corps Corporal Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 23, 1945 A demolition sergeant, Williams volunteered to advance alone and attempt to silence enemy positions. Returning periodically to collect more demolition charges and refueled flamethrowers, Williams systematically destroyed enemy pillboxes and emplacements, engaging in near hand-to-hand combat. Williams was the last surviving World War II medal of honor winner until his death on June 29, 2022.
Jack Williams  Navy Pharmacist's Mate Third class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands March 3, 1945 Navy Corpsman who risked his life charging through enemy fire to rescue wounded comrades. Wounded several times, Williams neglected his own wounds to care for the wounded Marines around him, exposing himself to enemy fire.
John H. Willis  Pharmacist's Mate First class Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands February 28, 1945 During a heated battle, Willis, while wounded himself, advanced to the aid of a wounded Marine. While administering plasma to the Marine, he quickly hurled back an enemy grenade that landed in their shell hole. He returned the seven others that followed as well, before a ninth exploded in his hand, killing him instantly.
Alfred L. Wilson  Army Technician 5th Grade near Bezange la Petite, France November 8, 1944 Volunteered as an aid man to assist another company that was taking heavy casualties. Mortally wounded by a shell that burst among him and the wounded men he was treating, he continued to provide aid to those injured while refusing it himself. As blood loss made him too weak to walk or crawl, he directed enlisted men on how to treat the wounded, before succumbing to his injuries.
Louis H. Wilson Jr. Marine Corps Captain Fonte Hill, Guam, Mariana Islands July 25, 1944 – July 26, 1944 Later became commandant of the Marine Corps.
Robert L. Wilson  Marine Corps Private First Class Tinian, Mariana Islands August 3, 1944 Sacrificed himself by jumping on an enemy grenade that landed among his squad.
Homer L. Wise Army Staff Sergeant Magliano, Italy June 14, 1944
Frank P. Witek  Marine Corps Private First Class Battle of Finegayen, Guam, Mariana Islands August 3, 1944 For knocking out several enemy positions, killing 16 Japanese soldiers before he was killed.
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

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Head of middle-aged white man wearing a white jacket with black shoulderboards and a white peaked cap with a black visor. Cassin 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.
Head and shoulders of a smiling young white man wearing a peaked cap, wire-framed glasses, and, over a shirt and tie, a jacket adorned with pins on the lapels, stripes and a round badge on the shoulder, and a whistle on a chain hanging from a shoulder button. 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

[edit]

  This along with the  , indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes
Head and shoulders of a man with wavy hair wearing a military jacket with rows of ribbon bars and a winged pin on his left breast, pins on the lapels, and a star-shaped medal hanging from a ribbon around his neck. Jay Zeamer Jr. 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
Raymond 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

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Notes

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Public Domain This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Army Center of Military History.
  1. ^ "A Brief History – The Medal of Honor". Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Department of Defense. August 8, 2006. Archived from the original on May 19, 2009. Retrieved February 9, 2010.
  2. ^ 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.
  3. ^ This number includes seven late awards presented by President Obama on March 18, 2014 and the award to Garlin Murl Conner by President Trump on June 26, 2018.
  4. ^ Niiya, Brian. "Congressional Medal of Honor recipients," Densho Encyclopedia. Retrieved August 5, 2014.
  5. ^ "Van Barfoot – Native Americans in the United States Army". www.army.mil. Retrieved April 9, 2020. Public Domain This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
  6. ^ a b Fisher, George (1947). The Story of the 180th Infantry Regiment. San Angelo, Texas: NEWSFOTO Publishing Co. pp. Chapter 6 "A place called Anzio".
  7. ^ "Native American Medal of Honor Recipients – U.S. Army Center of Military History". history.army.mil. Archived from the original on May 28, 2019. Retrieved April 9, 2020. Public Domain This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
  8. ^ "Foster Joseph Sayers | World War II | U.S. Army | Medal of Honor Recipient". Congressional Medal of Honor Society. Retrieved March 24, 2022. Public Domain This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.

References

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