Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Stories of Sacrifice
World War II - U.S. Marine Corps
John Vincent Power
Details
- Rank: First Lieutenant
- Conflict/Era: World War II
- Unit/Command:
Company K, 3d Battalion, 24th Marines,
4th Marine Division - Military Service Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
- Medal of Honor Action Date: February 1, 1944
- Medal of Honor Action Place: Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands
Citation
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as platoon leader, attached to the 4th Marine Division, during the landing and battle of Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, 1 February 1944. Severely wounded in the stomach while setting a demolition charge on a Japanese pillbox, 1st Lt. Power was steadfast in his determination to remain in action. Protecting his wound with his left hand and firing with his right, he courageously advanced as another hostile position was taken under attack, fiercely charging the opening made by the explosion and emptying his carbine into the pillbox. While attempting to reload and continue the attack, 1st Lt. Power was shot again in the stomach and head and collapsed in the doorway. His exceptional valor, fortitude and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of withering enemy fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Additional Details
- Accredited to: Massachusetts
- Awarded Posthumously: Yes
- Presentation Date & Details: August 30, 1944
White House to his family by President Franklin D. Roosevelt - Born: November 20, 1918, Worcester, Worcester County, MA, United States
- Died: February 1, 1944, Marshall Islands
- Buried: St. John's Cemetery (D-4-9), Worcester, MA, United States