*KRAUS, RICHARD EDWARD
Rank and organization: Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Born: 24 November 1925, Chicago, Ill. Accredited to:
Minnesota.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty while serving with the 8th Amphibious Tractor Battalion, Fleet Marine Force,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 5 October 1944.
Unhesitatingly volunteering for the extremely hazardous mission of evacuating a wounded
comrade from the front lines, Pfc. Kraus and 3 companions courageously made their way
forward and successfully penetrated the lines for some distance before the enemy opened
with an intense, devastating barrage of hand grenades which forced the stretcher party to
take cover and subsequently abandon the mission. While returning to the rear, they
observed 2 men approaching who appeared to be marines and immediately demanded the
password. When, instead of answering, 1 of the 2 Japanese threw a hand grenade into the
midst of the group, Pfc. Kraus heroically flung himself upon the grenade and, covering it
with his body, absorbed the full impact of the explosion and was instantly killed. By his
prompt action and great personal valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved the
lives of his 3 companions, and his loyal spirit of self-sacrifice reflects the highest
credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
comrades.
