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Hispanic-American Medal of Honor Recipients GONSALVES, HAROLD Rank and organization: Private
First Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
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Hispanic-American Medal of Honor Recipients GONSALVES, HAROLD Rank and organization: Private
First Class, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
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Citation: For conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving
as Acting Scout Sergeant with the 4th Battalion, 15th Marines, 6th Marine Division,
during action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain,
15 April 1945. Undaunted by the powerfully organized opposition encountered on Motobu
Peninsula during the fierce assault waged by his battalion against the Japanese stronghold
at Mount Yaetake, Pfc. Gonsalves repeatedly braved the terrific enemy bombardment
to aid his forward observation team in directing well-placed artillery fire. When
his commanding officer determined to move into the front lines in order to register
a more effective bombardment in the enemy's defensive position, he unhesitatingly
advanced uphill with the officer and another Marine despite a slashing barrage of
enemy mortar and rifle fire. As they reached the front and a Japanese grenade fell
close within the group, instantly Pfc. Gonsalves dived on the deadly missile, absorbing
the exploding charge in his own body and thereby protecting the others from serious
and perhaps fatal wounds. 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.