Eugene Morland Key
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| Eugene Morland Key | |
|---|---|
| October 5, 1916 – August 7, 1942 (aged 25) | |
| Place of birth | Conroe, Texas |
| Place of death | Tulagi |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/branch | Marine Corps Reserves |
| Years of service | 1941–1942 |
| Rank | First Lieutenant |
| Unit | 1st Marine Raider Battalion |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Tulagi |
| Awards | Navy Cross (posthumous) |
Eugene Morland Key was born at Conroe, Texas, 5 October 1916.
Contents |
[edit] Marine Corps Career
Key enlisted as a Private in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves 17 January 1941. Commissioned Second Lieutenant 29 May, he served at San Diego, California, and Washington, D.C., before joining the 1st Marine Raider Battalion 19 March 1942. Promoted to First Lieutenant 4 June, he participated in the amphibious invasion of Tulagi Island, Solomons, 7 August.
While leading the assault against a heavily defended, enemy position, Lieutenant Key was hit by hostile sniper fire. Although mortally wounded, he courageously struggled forward and threw hand grenades into the Japanese position, thus destroying the enemy resistance and allowing his platoon to advance without further loss.
[edit] Awarded the Navy Cross
For his "indomitable fighting spirit, outstanding skill, and great personal valor" First Lieutenant Key was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.
[edit] Namesake
USS Key (DE-348) was named in his honor. She was launched 12 February 1944 by Consolidated Steel Corp., Orange, Texas, sponsored by Mrs. Ira F. Key, mother of Lt. Key; and commissioned 5 June 1944, Lt. Comdr. F. D. Buckley in command.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.
