Robert Lee Wilson-Centralia, IL
Posted by: 
Don.Morfe
N 38° 33.960 W 089° 07.506
16S E 314855 N 4270757
World War II Medal of Honor Recipient for action on Tinian Island, Marianas Group on August 4, 1944. He was killed in action. He is buried in Hillcrest Memorial Park, Centralia, IL in Section 1, Lot 351.
Waymark Code: WMXBRW
Location: Illinois, United States
Date Posted: 12/23/2017
Views: 0
He was born on May 24, 1921 in Centralia, IL and died on August 3, 1944 in Tinian, Mariana Islands. His Medal of Honor information and citation is: *WILSON, ROBERT LEE
• Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
Citation 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.
Armed Service: Marines
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