Throwing themselves on the flesh-cutting barbed wire, the first of the waves formed human bridges for their comrades to leap across. One of the Marine section leaders facing them was Sergeant "Manila John" Basilone. An experienced machine gunner, Basilone knew his guns would be tested to their mechanical limits. read more
John Basilone received the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross and Purple Heart. Lets take a look at the life of the gunnery sergeant who, despite his modesty, was a remarkable soldier and one of America’s true heroes of World War 2. read more
John Basilone's headstone in Arlington National Cemetery After his request to return to the fleet was approved, Basilone was assigned to "C" Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division. read more