Medal of Honor Books

Heroes in the War on Terrorism

NAVY    -  MARINES   -  AIR FORCE   - ARMY O.E.F.  - ARMY O.I.F.

These books contain the citations for nearly all of the awards of the Silve Star and higher to members of each branch of service in the War on Terrorism. Books include photos of most recipients, some biographical data, analysis of awards by rank, unit, date, and more.

ENCYCLOPEDIA of AMERICAN MILITARY HEROES

Santa Fe National Cemetery
  In Memory Marker MA-84  

Born:     May 02, 1910 at Atlanta, GA

Entered Service in the US Marine Corps from New Mexico

Earned The Medal of Honor During World War II For heroism November 20 - 22, 1943 at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands

On his own initiative when assault troops were pinned down at the far end of Betio Pier by the overwhelming fire of Japanese shore batteries, First Lieutenant Bonnyman repeatedly defied enemy bombardment to organize and lead the besieged men over the long, open pier to the beach. Obtaining flame throwers and demolitions, he organized a shore party into assault demolitionists and directed the blowing of several hostile installations. Determined to effect an opening in the enemy's strongly organized defense line the next day, he crawled 40 yards forward of our lines and placed demolitions in the entrance of a large Japanese emplacement. Withdrawing only to replenish his ammunition, he led his men in a renewed assault, exposing himself to hostile fire as he stormed the formidable bastion, directed the placement of demolition charges and seized the top of the bombproof position, flushing more than 100 of the enemy who were instantly cut down, and effecting the annihilation of approximately 150 troops inside the emplacement. Assailed by additional Japanese after he had gained his objective, he made a heroic stand on the edge of the structure, defending his strategic position with indomitable determination killing three of the enemy before he fell, mortally wounded.