Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

Rifle Squad, Company A, 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division "Fighting Fourth", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded for:

Operation Detachment

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Leader of a Rifle Squad of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 5 March 1945. When his company was pinned down by enemy rifle and machine gun fire and unable to advance, Corporal Hanson unhesitatingly exposed himself to this fire in order to find a route over which his squad could continue the advance. Moving forward with a minimum of casualties, he launched a concerted and relentless attack on several bunkers which were destroyed, and personally put out of action a heavy enemy machine gun. By removing these obstacles, Corporal Hanson opened the way for his company to continue the advance and gain its objective. His skill in combat, aggressive initiative and outstanding leadership reflect the highest credit on Corporal Hanson and the United States Naval Service."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Staff Sergeant (Sergeant)

Unit:

Company A, 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division "Fighting Fourth", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded for:

Operation Detachment

For wounded in action on 5 February 1945 at the island Iwo Jima, Bonin Islands, Japan.