JACK L. KNIGHT

Birthplace

Garner, TX

Medal of Honor

Hall of Fame Biography

Citation

He led his cavalry troop against heavy concentrations of enemy mortar, artillery, and small-arms fire. After taking the troop's objective and while making preparations for a defense, he discovered a nest of Japanese pillboxes and foxholes to the right front. Preceding his men by at least 10 feet, he immediately led an attack. Singlehandedly he knocked out two enemy pillboxes and killed the occupants of several foxholes. While attempting to knock out a third pillbox, he was struck and blinded by an enemy grenade. Although unable to see, he rallied his platoon and continued forward in the assault on the remaining pillboxes. Before the task was completed he fell mortally wounded. First Lt. Knight's gallantry and intrepidity were responsible for the successful elimination of most of the Japs' positions and served as an inspiration to officers and men of his troop.

Details

War or Conflict

WORLD WAR II

Service Unit

F Troop, 124th Cavalry Regiment, MARS Task Force

Date of Action

2 February 1944