Lt. Col. Aquilla J. Dyess
U.S. Marine Corps, 4th Marine Division
Background
Aquilla James Dyess was born January 11, 1909 in Andersonville, Georgia. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC). Assigned to the 4th Marine Division.
Wartime History
On February 2, 1944 while standing on the parapet of an anti-tank trench directing a group of infantry in a flanking attack against the last Japanese position in the northern part of Namur Island. In this final assault, Lt Col Dyess posted himself between the opposing lines and, exposed to fire from heavy automatic weapons and was killed by a burst of gunfire. Wherever the attack was slowed by heavier enemy fire, he quickly appeared and placed himself at the head of his men and inspired them to push forward.
Medal of Honor
Dyess earned the Medal of Honor, posthumously for his actions February 1-2, 1944.
Posthumous Medal of Honor
 Citation: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, Reinforced, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, 1 February and 2, 1944. Undaunted by severe fire from automatic Japanese weapons, Lieutenant Colonel Dyess launched a powerful final attack on the second day of the assault, unhesitatingly posting himself between the opposing lines to point out objectives and avenues of approach and personally leading the advancing troops. Alert, and determined to quicken the pace of the offensive against increased enemy fire, he was constantly at the head of advance units, inspiring his men to push forward until the Japanese had been driven back to a small center of resistance and victory assured. While standing on the parapet of an antitank trench directing a group of infantry in a flanking attack against the last enemy position, Lieutenant Colonel Dyess was killed by a burst of enemy machine-gun fire. His daring and forceful leadership and his valiant fighting spirit in the face of terrific opposition were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country." |
Memorials
On February 2, 1944 Dyess was Killed In Action (KIA) at age 35. Postwar, he was permanently buried at Westover Memorial Park in Augusta, GA at crypt D, row 5.
During 1944, Roi Airfield was named Dyess Army Air Field (Dyess AAF) in his honor. During 1945, U.S. Navy (USN) destroyer USS Dyess (DD-880) was named in his honor. In October 30, 1998, the Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center in Augusta, Georgia was dedicated to Lt Col. A. James Dyess, USMCR.
Research
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Aquilla James Dyess (photo, grave photo)
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