
First Lieutenant William D. Hawkins was born on April 19, 1914, in Fort Scott, Kansas. He joined the Marine Corps on January 5, 1942. On November 20, 1943, Hawkins and his platoon faced a daunting task of securing a beachhead on the heavily fortified island of Betio. Despite sustaining severe injuries, including a grave chest wound, Hawkins fearlessly led assaults on enemy positions, eliminating Japanese soldiers at close range with exceptional bravery. Even when his ammunition ran out, he continued using grenades and satchel charges to dismantle enemy defenses. Refusing to leave the battlefield despite orders, he declared his commitment to the cause. Tragically, he succumbed to his wounds on November 21, 1943, leaving behind a legacy of valor and selflessness at the age of 29. This is his story. #distinguished #America #USA #military #armedforces #War #hero #medalofhonor #sacrifice #marines #WilliamHawkins #WW2 #WWII #FortScott #Kansas #ElPaso #Texas