The President of the United States in the name
of The Congress takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of
Honor
to
JOHN HARLAN WILLIS
Pharmacist's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life
above and beyond the call of duty as Platoon Corpsman serving with
the 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during
operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, 28 February 1945. Constantly imperiled by artillery and
mortar fire from strong and mutually supporting pillboxes and caves
studding Hill 362 in the enemy's cross-island defenses, Willis
resolutely administered first aid to the many marines wounded
during the furious close-in fighting until he himself was struck by
shrapnel and was ordered back to the battle-aid station. Without
waiting for official medical release, he quickly returned to his
company and, during a savage hand-to-hand enemy counterattack,
daringly advanced to the extreme frontlines under mortar and sniper
fire to aid a marine Iying wounded in a shellhole. Completely
unmindful of his own danger as the Japanese intensified their
attack, Willis calmly continued to administer blood plasma to his
patient, promptly returning the first hostile grenade which landed
in the shell-hole while he was working and hurling back 7 more in
quick succession before the ninth one exploded in his hand and
instantly killed him. By his great personal valor in saving others
at the sacrifice of his own life, he inspired his companions,
although terrifically outnumbered, to launch a fiercely determined
attack and repulse the enemy force. His exceptional fortitude and
courage in the performance of duty reflect the highest credit upon
Willis and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for
his country.
Cache is now a single stage. Be sure to hide it back well.
