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Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps. Birth: 14 February
1919, Americus, Kans. Accredited to: Kansas. Other Navy awards: Bronze Star
Medal. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk
of his life above and beyond the call of duty as tank commander serving
with the 2d Battalion, 6th Marines, 2d Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 8 July 1944. Advancing
with his tank a few yards ahead of the infantry in support of a vigorous
attack on hostile positions, Sgt. Timmerman maintained steady fire from
his antiaircraft sky mount machinegun until progress was impeded by a series
of enemy trenches and pillboxes. Observing a target of opportunity, he
immediately ordered the tank stopped and, mindful of the danger from the
muzzle blast as he prepared to open fire with the 75mm., fearlessly stood
up in the exposed turret and ordered the infantry to hit the deck. Quick
to act as a grenade, hurled by the Japanese, was about to drop into the
open turret hatch, Sgt. Timmerman unhesitatingly blocked the opening with
his body holding the grenade against his chest and taking the brunt of
the explosion. His exception valor and loyalty in saving his men at the
cost of his own life reflect the highest credit upon Sgt. Timmerman and
the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his
country.
This data was extracted from the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, U.S. Senate, Medal of Honor Recipients: 1863-1973 (Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1973)
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