15 April

PFC HAROLD GONSALVES
U.S. M.C. Reserve.
6th Marine Division
The Ryukyu Island Chain
15 April 1945

While serving as Acting Scout Sergeant
with the 4th Battalion, 15th Marines,
during direct action against enemy forces, Pfc Gonsalves was undaunted by the terrific enemy bombardment and hail of machinegun fire as he moved forward to aid his observation team in directing well-placed artillery fire.

Pfc Gonsalves unhesitatingly advanced uphill, an officer and another Marine followed. A Japanese grenade fell close within the group, instantly Pfc. Gonsalves dived on it, absorbing the detonation and shrapnel with his own body and thereby protecting the others from serious and perhaps fatal wounds.

The last line of PFC Gonsalves’ Medal of Honor certificate reads as follows:

“Stouthearted and indomitable, Pfc. Gonsalves readily yielded his own chances of survival that his fellow marines might carry on the relentless battle against a fanatic enemy and his cool decision, prompt action and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the U.S. Naval Service.”