Wilson, Robert Lee

Date of birth:: May 24th, 1921 (Centralia/Illinois, United States)
Date of death:: August 4th, 1944 (Tinian, Marianas)
Buried on:: American War Grave Hillcrest Cemetery
Nationality:: American

Biography

September 9th, 1941, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps. He was killed August 4th, 1944 on Tinian where he was buried initially. Later on, his remains were transferred to Hillcrest Cemetery in Centralia, Illinois.

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Medal of Honor - Navy/Marine Corps (MoH)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Private First Class (Marine)
Unit:: 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 2d Battalion, 6th Marines, 2d Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tinian Island, Marianas Group, on 4 August 1944. As 1 of a group of marines advancing through heavy underbrush to neutralize isolated points of resistance, Pfc. Wilson daringly preceded his companions toward a pile of rocks where Japanese troops were supposed to be hiding. Fully aware of the danger involved, he was moving forward while the remainder of the squad, armed with automatic rifles, closed together in the rear when an enemy grenade landed in the midst of the group. Quick to act, Pfc. Wilson cried a warning to the men and unhesitatingly threw himself on the grenade, heroically sacrificing his own life that the others might live and fulfill their mission. His exceptional valor, his courageous loyalty and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave peril reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Wilson and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Awarded posthumously.