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How One Marine's Sacrifice Helped Change America

Yasunari Kawabata

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Published in Radical Courage: How One Marine S Sacrifice Helped Change America

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Radical Courage: How One Marine's Sacrifice Helped Change America

by John Locke

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2414 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	115 pages

On December 7, 1941, the United States was attacked by Japan at Pearl Harbor. The attack was a complete surprise, and it brought the United States into World War II.

One of the Marines who fought bravely at Pearl Harbor was Private First Class John Basilone. Basilone was a machine gunner, and he manned his gun throughout the attack. He fought off wave after wave of Japanese attackers, and he helped to save the lives of many of his fellow Marines.

Basilone's bravery earned him the Medal of Honor, the highest military award for valor. He was the first Marine to receive the Medal of Honor in World War II.

Basilone's sacrifice helped to change America. His bravery inspired Americans to fight for their country, and it helped to turn the tide of the war. Basilone's story is a reminder of the sacrifices that our military men and women have made for our country.

Basilone's Early Life

John Basilone was born on November 4, 1916, in Raritan, New Jersey. He was the son of Italian immigrants, and he grew up in a poor family. Basilone dropped out of school at a young age, and he worked a variety of jobs before enlisting in the Marines in 1940.

Basilone was a natural athlete, and he excelled in boxing and wrestling. He was also a skilled marksman. Basilone's athleticism and marksmanship made him a valuable asset to the Marines.

Basilone's Military Career

Basilone was assigned to the 1st Marine Division, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Battalion, Company E. He was sent to Guadalcanal in August 1942, and he saw action in the Battle of Guadalcanal.

At Guadalcanal, Basilone distinguished himself in combat. He was awarded the Silver Star for his actions during the battle. Basilone's bravery and leadership helped his unit to achieve victory.

In November 1943, Basilone was transferred to the 5th Marine Division, 27th Marine Regiment, 3rd Battalion, Company I. He was sent to Iwo Jima in February 1945.

At Iwo Jima, Basilone fought bravely once again. He was killed in action on February 19, 1945. Basilone's body was never recovered.

Basilone's Legacy

Basilone has been honored in many ways. He has been awarded the Medal of Honor, the Silver Star, and the Purple Heart. He has also been awarded the Navy Cross, the Bronze Star, and the Presidential Unit Citation. In addition, Basilone has been honored with a postage stamp, a statue, and a museum.

Basilone's legacy is one of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism. He is a hero to all Americans, and his story will continue to inspire generations to come.

Radical Courage: How One Marine's Sacrifice Helped Change America

by John Locke

4.9 out of 5