Ettore J. Marsolo
Encyclopedia
Ettore J. Marsolo served in the United States Marine Corps
during World War II
. He was awarded the Navy Cross
for his action during the Battle of Tarawa
.
His award citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class Ettore J. Marsolo (MCSN: 421262), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Seriously wounded in the right arm after landing on the beachhead during the initial assault, Private First Class Marsolo refused to be evacuated and, unable to fire a weapon, volunteered to act as messenger for his Company Commander and carry the portable radio. Despite the intense pain of his wounds, he continued in this capacity throughout the day and, although constantly exposed to heavy enemy fire, delivered important messages until ordered to be evacuated. His indomitable fighting spirit and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Marsolo was born in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania
, his home of record was Beloit, Wisconsin
.
United States Marine Corps
The United States Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. It is one of seven uniformed services of the United States...
during World War II
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
. He was awarded the Navy Cross
Navy Cross
The Navy Cross is the highest decoration that may be bestowed by the Department of the Navy and the second highest decoration given for valor. It is normally only awarded to members of the United States Navy, United States Marine Corps and United States Coast Guard, but can be awarded to all...
for his action during the Battle of Tarawa
Battle of Tarawa
The Battle of Tarawa, code named Operation Galvanic, was a battle in the Pacific Theater of World War II, largely fought from November 20 to November 23, 1943. It was the first American offensive in the critical central Pacific region....
.
His award citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class Ettore J. Marsolo (MCSN: 421262), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Seriously wounded in the right arm after landing on the beachhead during the initial assault, Private First Class Marsolo refused to be evacuated and, unable to fire a weapon, volunteered to act as messenger for his Company Commander and carry the portable radio. Despite the intense pain of his wounds, he continued in this capacity throughout the day and, although constantly exposed to heavy enemy fire, delivered important messages until ordered to be evacuated. His indomitable fighting spirit and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Marsolo was born in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania
McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania
McKees Rocks, also known as "The Rocks", is a borough in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, along the south bank of the Ohio River. The borough population was 6,104 at the 2010 census.In the past, it was known for its extensive iron and steel interests...
, his home of record was Beloit, Wisconsin
Beloit, Wisconsin
Beloit is a city in Rock County, Wisconsin, United States. As of the 2010 census, Beloit had a population of 36,966. The greater Beloit area is home to more than 91,000 residents.-Claim to fame:...
.