LUCAS, JACKLYN HAROLD - Medal of Honor Recipient
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve,
1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division. Place and date: Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands, 20 February 1945. Entered service at: Norfolk, Va. Birth:
14 February 1928, Plymouth, N.C. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while
serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during
action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 20 February
1945. While creeping through a treacherous, twisting ravine which ran in
close proximity to a fluid and uncertain frontline on D-plus-1 day, Pfc.
Lucas and 3 other men were suddenly ambushed by a hostile patrol which
savagely attacked with rifle fire and grenades. Quick to act when the lives
of the small group were endangered by 2 grenades which landed directly
in front of them, Pfc. Lucas unhesitatingly hurled himself over his comrades
upon 1 grenade and pulled the other under him, absorbing the whole blasting
forces of the explosions in his own body in order to shield his companions
from the concussion and murderous flying fragments. By his inspiring action
and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, he not only protected his comrades
from certain injury or possible death but also enabled them to rout the
Japanese patrol and continue the advance. His exceptionally courageous
initiative and loyalty reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Lucas and the
U.S. Naval Service.
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