*LESTER, FRED FAULKNER
Rank and organization: Hospital Apprentice
First Class, U.S. Navy. Born: 29 April 1926, Downers Grove, Ill. Accredited to:
Illinois.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman with an Assault Rifle Platoon, attached
to the 1st Battalion, 22d Marines, 6th Marine Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain, 8 June 1945. Quick to spot a wounded
marine Iying in an open field beyond the front lines following the relentless assault
against a strategic Japanese hill position, Lester unhesitatingly crawled toward the
casualty under a concentrated barrage from hostile machineguns, rifles, and grenades. Torn
by enemy rifle bullets as he inched forward, he stoically disregarded the mounting fury of
Japanese fire and his own pain to pull the wounded man toward a covered position. Struck
by enemy fire a second time before he reached cover, he exerted tremendous effort and
succeeded in pulling his comrade to safety where, too seriously wounded himself to
administer aid, he instructed 2 of his squad in proper medical treatment of the rescued
marine. Realizing that his own wounds were fatal, he staunchly refused medical attention
for himself and, gathering his fast-waning strength with calm determination, coolly and
expertly directed his men in the treatment of 2 other wounded marines, succumbing shortly
thereafter. Completely selfless in his concern for the welfare of his fighting comrades,
Lester, by his indomitable spirit, outstanding valor, and competent direction of others,
had saved the life of 1 who otherwise must have perished and had contributed to the safety
of countless others. Lester's fortitude in the face of certain death sustains and enhances
the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
