Wabel, Lewis N. Jr. (USN)

Date of birth:: March 22nd, 1926 (Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois - USA)
Date of death:: October 24th, 2009 (Heartland Health Care Center in Henry, Marshall County, Illinois - USA)
Service number:: NSN: 7530617
Nationality:: American

Biography

Lewis served his country in the United States Navy during WWII; he entered at the age of 17 in 1943 as Seaman, Gunners First Mate (GMIC). He was wounded in the Pacific Ocean area. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Navy Cross aboard the USS LCI (G) 561. He was discharged in 1945.

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Navy Cross

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class
Unit:: 3rd Amphibious Force
Awarded on:: November 27th, 1944

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Gun Captain of a 20-mm. gun on an LCI Gunboat during the rocket and gun bombardment Leyte, Philippine Islands on 20 October 1944, while leading in the first assault wave of an invasion force. When a misfire occurred in the heated breach of his gun and a full magazine was left in place by the crew, Gunner's Mate Second Class Wabel coolly stepped forward and, disregarding his own personal safety, unshipped the magazine and threw it over the side. The misfire exploded in his face inflicting severe powder burns and lacerations. By his action in the face of danger he averted a serious explosion and probably saved the lives of his gun crew and others nearby. His courage and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

General Orders: Commander 3d Amphibious Force: Serial 8187 (November 27, 1944).