Serial # 355637
Awarded The Silver Star at Tarawa :
"For conspicuous gallantry in action against enemy Japanese forces while serving as a member of Company M, Third Battalion, Second Marines, P.F.C. Arthur Bonner Waldenville USMC is awarded the Silver Star.
Landing in the face of intense enemy fire, Private First Class Waldenville observed that tanks could not be advanced from their hazardous position in the water without running over the helplessly wounded personnel lying upon the beach. With absolute disregard for personal safety, he proceeded to move the wounded to a place of safety, and continued his voluntary efforts until killed by the intense fire of enemy weapons. By his heroic action in behalf of his comrades, Waldenville contributed materially to the success of our forces in capturing this strongly defended outpost. He gallantly gave his life for his country."Francis P. Matthews, Secretary of the Navy
His citation was accompanied by a letter of congratulations and condolence from General Clifton B. Cates, Commandant USMC.
PFC Waldenville was killed 20 November 1943 and his body was not recovered. Although his initial burial was recorded by Chaplain Willard his body must have been misidentified in the subsequent reburials.
Contributed by Nancy Brewer, niece of Arthur Waldenville.
Thanks for all your help Nancy!
Also see Nancy's interview with Les Groshong 3-HQ-8
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copyright 2001 T.O.T.W.
Created 7 January 2001 - Updated 22 January 2006
