Congressional Medal of Honor Society

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World War II - U.S. Army

George Taro "Joe" Sakato

Details
  • Rank: Private
  • Conflict/Era: World War II
  • Unit/Command:
    3d Platoon, Company E, 2d Battalion,
    442d Regimental Combat Team
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: October 29, 1944
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Hill 617 near Biffontaine, France
Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Private George T. Sakato distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 29 October 1944, on hill 617 in the vicinity of Biffontaine, France. After his platoon had virtually destroyed two enemy defense lines, during which he personally killed five enemy soldiers and captured four, his unit was pinned down by heavy enemy fire. Disregarding the enemy fire, Private Sakato made a one-man rush that encouraged his platoon to charge and destroy the enemy strongpoint. While his platoon was reorganizing, he proved to be the inspiration of his squad in halting a counter-attack on the left flank during which his squad leader was killed. Taking charge of the squad, he continued his relentless tactics, using an enemy rifle and P-38 pistol to stop an organized enemy attack. During this entire action, he killed 12 and wounded two, personally captured four and assisted his platoon in taking 34 prisoners. By continuously ignoring enemy fire, and by his gallant courage and fighting spirit, he turned impending defeat into victory and helped his platoon complete its mission. Private Sakato's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.

USED WITH PERMISSION, COPYRIGHT NICK DELCALZO
USED WITH PERMISSION, COPYRIGHT NICK DELCALZO
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Fort Douglas, Salt Lake County, Utah
  • Awarded Posthumously: No
  • Presentation Date & Details: June 21, 2000

    The White House - presented by President William J. Clinton

  • Born: February 19, 1921, Colton, San Berardino County, CA, United States
  • Died: December 2, 2015, Denver, CO, United States
  • Buried: Fairmount Cemetery, Denver, CO, United States
 
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