serial# 356753.
Earl was a flame-thrower and demolition expert on Tarawa. He landed with the first wave. His landing craft was hit and all occupants thrown from it. He was picked up by another craft, given new weapons, and he then waded in under cover of the pier. He was awarded the Silver Star for actions on Tarawa 23 November 1943. After Tarawa, he then was assigned to the 5th Marine division and landed with the first wave at Iwo Jima. He was severely wounded on day 24 on Iwo, survived after 14 months in the hospital, and returned to Wisconsin where he was married, had 7 children, and became a successful businessman.
Email - Jon@tarawaontheweb.org
copyright 2002 Wheaton, Illinois
Created 13 September 2002
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