*BERRY, CHARLES JOSEPH
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps. Born: 10 July 1923, Lorain, Ohio. Accredited to: Ohio.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty as member of a machinegun crew, serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines,
5th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo
Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 3 March 1945. Stationed in the front lines, Cpl. Berry
manned his weapon with alert readiness as he maintained a constant vigil with other
members of his guncrew during the hazardous night hours. When infiltrating Japanese
soldiers launched a surprise attack shortly after midnight in an attempt to overrun his
position, he engaged in a pitched hand grenade duel, returning the dangerous weapons with
prompt and deadly accuracy until an enemy grenade landed in the foxhole. Determined to
save his comrades, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself and immediately dived on
the deadly missile, absorbing the shattering violence of the exploding charge in his own
body and protecting the others from serious injury. Stouthearted and indomitable, Cpl.
Berry fearlessly yielded his own life that his fellow marines might carry on the
relentless battle against a ruthless enemy and his superb valor and unfaltering devotion
to duty in the face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the
U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
