Rank and organization: Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Born: 3 April 1918, Sturbridge, Mass. Accredited to: Massachusetts.
Citation... For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his
life above and beyond the call of duty as a P/Sgt. serving with the 1st
Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 9
March 1945. Determined to force a breakthrough when Japanese troops
occupying trenches and fortified positions on the left front laid down a
terrific machinegun and mortar barrage in a desperate effort to halt his
company's advance, P/Sgt. Julian quickly established his platoon's guns
in strategic supporting positions, and then, acting on his own
initiative, fearlessly moved forward to execute a 1-man assault on the
nearest pillbox. |
|
Advancing alone, he hurled deadly demolition and white phosphorus
grenades into the emplacement, killing 2 of the enemy and driving
the remaining 5 out into the adjoining trench system. Seizing a
discarded rifle, he jumped into the trench and dispatched the 5
before they could make an escape. Intent on wiping out all
resistance, he obtained more explosives and, accompanied by another
marine, again charged the hostile fortifications and knocked out 2
more cave positions. Immediately thereafter, he launched a bazooka
attack unassisted, firing 4 rounds into the 1 remaining pillbox and
completely destroying it before he fell, mortally wounded by a
vicious burst of enemy fire. Stouthearted and indomitable, P/Sgt.
Julian consistently disregarded all personal danger and, by his bold
decision, daring tactics, and relentless fighting spirit during a
critical phase of the battle, contributed materially to the
continued advance of his company and to the success of his
division's operations in the sustained drive toward the conquest of
this fiercely defended outpost of the Japanese Empire. His
outstanding valor and unfaltering spirit of self-sacrifice
throughout the bitter conflict sustained and enhanced the highest
traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for
his country. | |
|