*WILSON, ROBERT LEE
Rank and Organization:: Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps. Born: 24 May 1921, Centralia, 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 with the 2d Battalion, 6th Marines, 2d Marine Division, during
action against enemy Japanese forces at Tinian Island, Marianas Group, on 4 August 1944.
As 1 of a group of marines advancing through heavy underbrush to neutralize isolated
points of resistance, Pfc. Wilson daringly preceded his companions toward a pile of rocks
where Japanese troops were supposed to be hiding. Fully aware of the danger involved, he
was moving forward while the remainder of the squad, armed with automatic rifles, closed
together in the rear when an enemy grenade landed in the midst of the group. Quick to act,
Pfc. Wilson cried a warning to the men and unhesitatingly threw himself on the grenade,
heroically sacrificing his own life that the others might live and fulfill their mission.
His exceptional valor, his courageous loyalty and unwavering devotion to duty in the face
of grave peril reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Wilson and the U.S. Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
