Jacklyn Harold "Jack" Lucas-Hattiesburg, MS
Posted by: 
Don.Morfe
N 31° 20.262 W 089° 20.274
16R E 277571 N 3469389
World War II Medal of Honor Recipient for action at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on February 20, 1945. He is buried in Highland Cemetery, Hattiesburg, MS in Section 32 Lot 47.
Waymark Code: WMX30V
Location: Mississippi, United States
Date Posted: 11/19/2017
Views: 2
He was born on February 14, 1928 in Plymouth, NC and died on June 5, in Hattiesburg, MS. His Medal of Honor information and citation is: LUCAS, JACKLYN HAROLD
• Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division
• Place and date: Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 20 February 1945
• Entered service at: Norfolk, Va.
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 20 February 1945. While creeping through a treacherous, twisting ravine which ran in close proximity to a fluid and uncertain frontline on D-plus-1 day, Pfc. Lucas and 3 other men were suddenly ambushed by a hostile patrol which savagely attacked with rifle fire and grenades. Quick to act when the lives of the small group were endangered by 2 grenades which landed directly in front of them, Pfc. Lucas unhesitatingly hurled himself over his comrades upon 1 grenade and pulled the other under him, absorbing the whole blasting forces of the explosions in his own body in order to shield his companions from the concussion and murderous flying fragments. By his inspiring action and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, he not only protected his comrades from certain injury or possible death but also enabled them to rout the Japanese patrol and continue the advance. His exceptionally courageous initiative and loyalty reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Lucas and the U.S. Naval Service.
Armed Service: Marines
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