*DAMATO, ANTHONY PETER
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps. Born: 28 March 1922, Shenandoah, Pa. Accredited to:
Pennsylvania.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty while serving with an assault company in action against enemy Japanese forces
on Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, on the night of 1920 February 1944.
Highly vulnerable to sudden attack by small, fanatical groups of Japanese still at large
despite the efficient and determined efforts of our forces to clear the area, Cpl. Damato
lay with 2 comrades in a large foxhole in his company's defense perimeter which had been
dangerously thinned by the forced withdrawal of nearly half of the available men. When 1
of the enemy approached the foxhole undetected and threw in a hand grenade, Cpl. Damato
desperately groped for it in the darkness. Realizing the imminent peril to all 3 and fully
aware of the consequences of his act, he unhesitatingly flung himself on the grenade and,
although instantly killed as his body absorbed the explosion, saved the lives of his 2
companions. Cpl. Damato's splendid initiative, fearless conduct and valiant sacrifice
reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his comrades.
