James L. Day
Major General James Lewis Day (October 5, 1925 – October 28, 1998) was a United States Marine Corps major general who served in World War II, in the Korean War, and in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions as a corporal on May 14 to 17, 1945 during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II.
James Lewis Day | |
|---|---|
MajGen James L. Day, Medal of Honor recipient | |
| Born | October 5, 1925 East St. Louis, Illinois, U.S. |
| Died | October 28, 1998 (aged 73) Cathedral City, California, U.S. |
| Place of burial | Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, California |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1943–1986 |
| Rank | Major general |
| Unit | 2nd Battalion 22nd Marines |
| Commands held | 1st Battalion, 9th Marines 2nd Infantry Training Regiment Camp Fuji 4th Marine Corps District MCRD San Diego 7th Marine Amphibious Brigade 1st Marine Division I MAF Camp Smedley Butler |
| Battles/wars | World War II *Battle of Okinawa *Battle of Guam *Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign Korean War Vietnam War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor Navy Distinguished Service Medal Silver Star Medal with two gold stars in lieu of second and third awards Defense Superior Service Medal Legion of Merit with combat "V" Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" Purple Heart Medal (6) The Navy Commendation Medal with Combat "V" and gold star in lieu of a second award Combat Action Ribbon |
Upon awarding him the Medal of Honor, President Clinton said:
During a career that spanned more than four decades, he rose from enlisted man through the ranks to major general, becoming one of the greatest mustangs the Marine Corps ever produced. In Korea, his valor in combat was recognized with two Silver Stars. In Vietnam, his leadership and bravery under fire earned him a third Silver Star. Just as astonishing, for his service in three wars, Jim Day received six Purple Hearts.