Maples, Gordon

Date of death:: September 20th, 1944 (Peleliu, Palau Islands)
Mentioned on:: American Cemetery and Memorial Manila
Service number:: O-11027
Nationality:: American

Biography

His name is engraved on the 'Wall of the Missing or Buried at Sea' at the American Cemetery and Memorial Manila, Philippines.

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Navy Cross

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Second Lieutenant
Unit:: Company F, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps
Awarded on:: 1943

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant Gordon Maples (MCSN: 0-11027), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces while voluntarily leading a two-day combat patrol deep into enemy territory on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 22 November 1942. Operating over extremely difficult terrain of precipitous ridges and dense jungle, Second Lieutenant Maples, by skillful maneuvering, completely surprised a Japanese force outnumbering his own patrol five-to-one and annihilated nearly have of the hostile troops. When the diminishing supply of ammunition became serious, he expertly withdrew his patrol, suffering by two minor casualties in spite of heavy enemy fire. His excellent judgment and coolness in a perilous situation were an inspiration throughout the accomplishment of an important and hazardous mission, and his actions at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

General Orders: SPOT AWARD (1943): Serial 656.