John M. Gross
Encyclopedia
John M. Gross served in the United States Marine Corps
during World War II
. He was awarded the Navy Cross
for his actions during the Battle of Tarawa
.
His award citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class John M. Gross (MCSN: 356609), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Radio Operator for the Assault Regimental Commander of the Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 and 21 November 1943. When a scant foothold had been gained on the beach and the Regimental Command Post temporarily established under the Betio Pier in the face of heavy, persistent enemy fire, Private First Class Gross skillfully installed and operated his vital radio equipment as the only means of communication available to the Landing Force Commander and, courageously refusing to take cover from the intense Japanese machine-gun and sniper fire which hit all around him and destroyed one radio antennae, steadfastly remained at his post throughout the critical stages of the Tarawa Operation. Private First Class Gross' expert technical ability, great personal valor and tenacious devotion to duty under extremely perilous conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gross was born in Algoma, Wisconsin
. His home of record was Racine, Wisconsin
.
United States Marine Corps
The United States Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. It is one of seven uniformed services of the United States...
during World War II
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
. He was awarded the Navy Cross
Navy Cross
The Navy Cross is the highest decoration that may be bestowed by the Department of the Navy and the second highest decoration given for valor. It is normally only awarded to members of the United States Navy, United States Marine Corps and United States Coast Guard, but can be awarded to all...
for his actions during the Battle of Tarawa
Battle of Tarawa
The Battle of Tarawa, code named Operation Galvanic, was a battle in the Pacific Theater of World War II, largely fought from November 20 to November 23, 1943. It was the first American offensive in the critical central Pacific region....
.
His award citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class John M. Gross (MCSN: 356609), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Radio Operator for the Assault Regimental Commander of the Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 and 21 November 1943. When a scant foothold had been gained on the beach and the Regimental Command Post temporarily established under the Betio Pier in the face of heavy, persistent enemy fire, Private First Class Gross skillfully installed and operated his vital radio equipment as the only means of communication available to the Landing Force Commander and, courageously refusing to take cover from the intense Japanese machine-gun and sniper fire which hit all around him and destroyed one radio antennae, steadfastly remained at his post throughout the critical stages of the Tarawa Operation. Private First Class Gross' expert technical ability, great personal valor and tenacious devotion to duty under extremely perilous conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gross was born in Algoma, Wisconsin
Algoma, Wisconsin
Algoma is a city in Kewaunee County in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. The population was 3,357 at the 2000 census. Algoma is part of the Green Bay Metropolitan Statistical Area.-Geography:...
. His home of record was Racine, Wisconsin
Racine, Wisconsin
Racine is a city in and the county seat of Racine County, Wisconsin, United States. According to 2008 U.S. Census Bureau estimates, the city had a population of 82,196...
.