ROAN, CHARLES HOWARD - Medal of Honor Recipient
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
Birth: 16 August 1923, Claude, Tex.
Accredited to:
Texas. Citation: For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and
beyond the call of duty while serving with the 2d Battalion, 7th Marines,
1st Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu,
Palau Islands, 18 September 1944. Shortly after his leader ordered a withdrawal
upon discovering that the squad was partly cut off from their company as
a result of the rapid advance along an exposed ridge during an aggressive
attack on the strongly entrenched enemy, Pfc. Roan and his companions were
suddenly engaged in a furious exchange of handgrenades by Japanese forces
emplaced in a cave on higher ground and to the rear of the squad. Seeking
protection with 4 other marines in a depression in the rocky, broken terrain,
Pfc. Roan was wounded by an enemy grenade which fell close to their position
and, immediately realizing the eminent peril to his comrades when another
grenade landed in the midst of the group, unhesitatingly flung himself
upon it, covering it with his body and absorbing the full impact of the
explosion. By his prompt action and selfless conduct in the face of almost
certain death, he saved the lives of 4 men. His great personal valor reflects
the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his comrades.
Browse Records by Era / War / Subject |
