William J. Bordelon-San Antonio, TX
Posted by: 
Don.Morfe
N 29° 28.578 W 098° 25.974
14R E 554980 N 3260891
World War II Medal of Honor Recipient for action on Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands on November 20, 1943. He was killed in action. He is buried in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio TX in Section AI, site 558.
Waymark Code: WMWWED
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 10/22/2017
Views: 1
He was born on December 25, 1920 in San Antonio TX and died on November 20, 1943 in Tarawa, Gilbert Islands. His Medal of Honor information and citation is: *BORDELON, WILLIAM JAMES
• Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps.
Citation: For valorous and gallant conduct above and beyond the call of duty as a member of an assault engineer platoon of the 1st Battalion, 18th Marines, tactically attached to the 2d Marine Division, in action against the Japanese-held atoll of Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands on 20 November 1943. Landing in the assault waves under withering enemy fire which killed all but 4 of the men in his tractor, S/Sgt. Bordelon hurriedly made demolition charges and personally put 2 pillboxes out of action. Hit by enemy machinegun fire just as a charge exploded in his hand while assaulting a third position, he courageously remained in action and, although out of demolition, provided himself with a rifle and furnished fire coverage for a group of men scaling the seawall. Disregarding his own serious condition, he unhesitatingly went to the aid of one of his demolition men, wounded and calling for help in the water, rescuing this man and another who had been hit by enemy fire while attempting to make the rescue. Still refusing first aid for himself, he again made up demolition charges and single-handedly assaulted a fourth Japanese machinegun position but was instantly killed when caught in a final burst of fire from the enemy. S/Sgt. Bordelon's great personal valor during a critical phase of securing the limited beachhead was a contributing factor in the ultimate occupation of the island, and his heroic determination throughout 3 days of violent battle reflects the highest credit upon the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Armed Service: Marines
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