Franklin A. Hart
Franklin Augustus Hart (September 16, 1894 – June 22, 1967) was a four-star general in the United States Marine Corps who served more than thirty-seven years. His varied and colorful career included service during the two World Wars, sea duty aboard several ships of the Navy, and tours in Haiti, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic.
Franklin Augustus Hart | |
|---|---|
Franklin P. Hart, USMC | |
| Born | September 16, 1894 Cuthbert, Georgia, US |
| Died | June 22, 1967 (aged 72) Bethesda, Maryland, US |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1917–1954 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands held | 1st Battalion 8th Marines 24th Marine Regiment Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island 2nd Marine Division FMF Pacific |
| Battles/wars | World War I Banana Wars
World War II |
| Awards | Navy Cross Legion of Merit Bronze Star |
During World War II, General Hart was awarded the Navy Cross while commanding the 24th Marines in the assault and capture of Roi-Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, and was awarded the Legion of Merit while leading the regiment in the battles for Saipan and Tinian in the Marianas Islands. As assistant division commander, Fourth Marine Division, during the assault at Iwo Jima, he was awarded the Bronze Star.
His citation for the Navy Cross reads in part, "Landing when the assault troops had advanced only one hundred yards from the beach, Colonel Hart fearlessly led his combat team against heavy enemy resistance in a crushing attack toward its first objective."
"After repelling numerous counter attacks during the night, he skillfully reorganized his depleted units and affected a coordinated assault the next morning, rapidly overcoming all remaining opposition, and exterminating a large force of determined and fanatical Japanese."
"By his valiant performance of duty and outstanding leadership throughout this perilous assignment, Colonel Hart inspired all with whom he served."