*JULIAN, JOSEPH RODOLPH
Rank and organization: Platoon Sergeant,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Born: 3 April 1918, Sturbridge, Mass. Accredited to:
Massachusetts.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty as a P/Sgt. serving with the 1st Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the
Volcano Islands, 9 March 1945. Determined to force a breakthrough when Japanese troops
occupying trenches and fortified positions on the left front laid down a terrific
machinegun and mortar barrage in a desperate effort to halt his company's advance, P/Sgt.
Julian quickly established his platoon's guns in strategic supporting positions, and then,
acting on his own initiative, fearlessly moved forward to execute a 1-man assault on the
nearest pillbox. Advancing alone, he hurled deadly demolition and white phosphorus
grenades into the emplacement, killing 2 of the enemy and driving the remaining 5 out into
the adjoining trench system. Seizing a discarded rifle, he jumped into the trench and
dispatched the 5 before they could make an escape. Intent on wiping out all resistance, he
obtained more explosives and, accompanied by another marine, again charged the hostile
fortifications and knocked out 2 more cave positions. Immediately thereafter, he launched
a bazooka attack unassisted, firing 4 rounds into the 1 remaining pillbox and completely
destroying it before he fell, mortally wounded by a vicious burst of enemy fire.
Stouthearted and indomitable, P/Sgt. Julian consistently disregarded all personal danger
and, by his bold decision, daring tactics, and relentless fighting spirit during a
critical phase of the battle, contributed materially to the continued advance of his
company and to the success of his division's operations in the sustained drive toward the
conquest of this fiercely defended outpost of the Japanese Empire. His outstanding valor
and unfaltering spirit of self-sacrifice throughout the bitter conflict sustained and
enhanced the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for
his country.
