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The Incredible True Story of the Legendary Sailor the Japanese Couldn't Kill

Felipe Blair

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Published in The Indestructible Man: The Incredible True Story Of The Legendary Sailor The Japanese Couldn T Kill

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In the annals of naval history, there are few stories as incredible as that of John Basilone. A US Marine who fought in the Pacific Theater during World War II, Basilone became a legend for his heroic actions at the Battle of Guadalcanal.

Basilone was born in Raritan, New Jersey, in 1916. He dropped out of high school at the age of 16 and joined the Army. He served for two years before being discharged in 1938. Basilone then worked as a truck driver and a boxer before enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1940.

The Indestructible Man: The Incredible True Story of the Legendary Sailor the Japanese Couldn't Kill

by Don Keith

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4946 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	234 pages

Basilone was assigned to the 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. He saw his first combat action at Guadalcanal in August 1942. During the battle, Basilone's unit was tasked with defending Henderson Field, a key airstrip on the island. The Japanese launched a series of attacks on the airfield, and Basilone's unit was heavily outnumbered.

Despite the overwhelming odds, Basilone and his men held their ground. Basilone manned a machine gun and fired on the Japanese attackers, killing dozens of them. He also helped to evacuate wounded Marines and organized a counterattack that drove the Japanese back.

For his actions at Guadalcanal, Basilone was awarded the Navy Cross. He was also promoted to the rank of staff sergeant. Basilone continued to fight in the Pacific Theater, and he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions at the Battle of Iwo Jima in February 1945.

Basilone was killed in action on Iwo Jima on February 19, 1945. He was 28 years old. Basilone is considered one of the most decorated Marines in US history. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Silver Star.

Basilone's story is an incredible tale of courage, resilience, and survival. He is an inspiration to all who serve in the military, and his legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.

Legacy

Basilone's legacy is one of courage, resilience, and sacrifice. He is remembered as one of the most decorated Marines in US history, and his story continues to inspire generations of Americans.

In 1945, the US Navy commissioned the USS Basilone (DD-824),a destroyer named in his honor. The ship served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and was decommissioned in 1977.

In 1980, the US Postal Service issued a stamp commemorating Basilone. The stamp featured a portrait of Basilone and the inscription "John Basilone, USMC, Medal of Honor."

In 2005, the US Marine Corps established the John Basilone Award. The award is presented annually to a Marine who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, courage, and dedication to the Corps.

Basilone's story is a reminder of the sacrifices that our military men and women have made to protect our country. He is a hero who should never be forgotten.

The Indestructible Man: The Incredible True Story of the Legendary Sailor the Japanese Couldn't Kill

by Don Keith

4.6 out of 5