PM3c Jack Williams
U.S. Navy, Corpsman attached to USMC 3d Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division
Background
Jack Williams was born October 18, 1924 to parents William Ora Williams and Daughty Edith Gooch Williams in Harrison, Arkansas.
Wartime History
In June 1943 enlited in the U.S. Navy Reserve (USNR) as an apprentice seaman and underwent training at Naval Training Station in San Diego. In July 1943 promoted to the rank of seaman second class and completed Naval Hospital Corps School and his rating was changed to hospital apprentice. In November 1943 promoted. During January 1944 ordered to Field Medical School Battalion at Camp Elliott for combat field training. Assigned to Headquarters, 5th Marine Division at Camp Pendleton. In May 1944 promoted to the rank of pharmacist's mate, third class (PM3c)
On February 19, 1945 lands on Iwo Jima as a corpsman attached to the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC), 3rd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment. On March 3, 1945 went to assist wounded Marine James Naughton ahead of the front lines. When Williams reached him, dressed his own wounds then rendered aid to another fallen Marine. On his way back, Williams was hit by an enemy sniper and died later that day. For his actions on that day, he was posthumously earned the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor
For his actions on March 3, 1945, he earned the Medal of Honor, posthumously. During March 1946, his mother received his Medal of Honor in a ceremony in Harrison, Arkansas.
Medal of Honor Citation  (posthumous)
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 3d Battalion 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during the occupation of Iwo Jima Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. Gallantly going forward on the frontlines under intense enemy small-arms fire to assist a marine wounded in a fierce grenade battle, Williams dragged the man to a shallow depression and was kneeling, using his own body as a screen from the sustained fire as he administered first aid, when struck in the abdomen and groin 3 times by hostile rifle fire. Momentarily stunned, he quickly recovered and completed his ministration before applying battle dressings to his own multiple wounds. Unmindful of his own urgent need for medical attention, he remained in the perilous fire-swept area to care for another marine casualty. Heroically completing his task despite pain and profuse bleeding, he then endeavored to make his way to the rear in search of adequate aid for himself when struck down by a Japanese sniper bullet which caused his collapse. Succumbing later as a result of his self-sacrificing service to others, Williams, by his courageous determination, unwavering fortitude and valiant performance of duty, served as an inspiring example of heroism, in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country." |
Memorials
Williams is buried at Springfield National Cemetery at section 30, site 2375.
U.S. Navy guided missile frigate USS Jack Williams (FFG-24) was named for him, in service between 1981–1996.
References
Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) Jack Williams
Congressional Medal of Honor Society - Jack Williams
FindAGrave -
Jack Williams (photo, grave photo)
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