TracesOfWar needs your help! Every euro, pound or dollar you contribute greatly supports the continuation of this website. Go to stiwot.nl and donate!

Abel, Rondo Grayson (USMC)

Date of birth:
November 4th, 1920 (Jackson, Mississippi, United States)
Date of death:
June 13th, 1977 (Hinds, Mississippi, United States)
Service number:
MCSN: 331210
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

Do you have more information about this person? Inform us!

Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Corporal
Unit:
Co A 1/ 3rd Battalion - 5th Marine Division
Awarded on:
February 24th, 1945
Awarded for:
Operation Detachment
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Corporal Rondo G. Abel (MCSN: 331210), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Fire Team Leader of Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 24 February 1945. Participating in an attack on a large pillbox which was delivering heavy and effective fire upon his company, Corporal Abel spotted an opening which had not been previously noticed. Without any covering fire, he worked himself forward until he was in a position near the embrasure and single-handedly attacked the machine gun with only his rifle and hand grenades. Although he had received a gunshot wound in his foot during his advance, he continued his heroic attack and succeeded in silencing the hostile weapon. By his initiative and unselfish courage, he enabled the remainder of his squad to continue the attack, and his intrepid spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 44965 (June 19, 1945)
Navy Cross

Sources

Photo