HALYBURTON, WILLIAM DAVID, JR. - Medal of Honor Recipient
Rank and organization: Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S. Naval Reserve.
Birth: 2 August 1924, Canton, N.C. Accredited to: North Carolina. Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty while serving with a Marine Rifle Company in
the 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain, 10 May 1945.
Undaunted by the deadly accuracy of Japanese counterfire as his unit pushed
the attack through a strategically important draw, Halyburton unhesitatingly
dashed across the draw and up the hill into an open fire-swept field where
the company advance squad was suddenly pinned down under a terrific concentration
of mortar, machinegun and sniper fire with resultant severe casualties.
Moving steadily forward despite the enemy's merciless barrage, he reached
the wounded marine who lay farthest away and was rendering first aid when
his patient was struck for the second time by a Japanese bullet. Instantly
placing himself in the direct line of fire, he shielded the fallen fighter
with his own body and staunchly continued his ministrations although constantly
menaced by the slashing fury of shrapnel and bullets falling on all sides.
Alert, determined and completely unselfish in his concern for the helpless
marine, he persevered in his efforts until he himself sustained mortal
wounds and collapsed, heroically sacrificing himself that his comrade might
live. By his outstanding valor and unwavering devotion to duty in the face
of tremendous odds, Halyburton sustained and enhanced the highest traditions
of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of
his country.
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