Maurice Joseph Manuel

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Maurice Joseph Manuel
April 29, 1917(1917-04-29)November 10, 1942 (aged 25)
Place of birth Mamou, Louisiana
Place of death Guadalcanal
Allegiance United States of America
Service/branch United States Marine Corps
Years of service 19411942
Rank Private First Class
Battles/wars World War II
Awards Silver Star (posthumous)

Maurice Joseph Manuel was born 29 April 1917 at Mamou, Louisiana.

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[edit] Marine Corps career

Manuel enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at New Orleans, Louisiana, 16 December 1941. During the early months of World War II he served at San Diego, California, where he was promoted to private first class 4 April 1942.

[edit] Participated in Guadalcanal invasion

He participated in the invasion of the Solomon Islands in August and for more than 3 months took part in the heroic defense of American positions on Guadalcanal. While fighting between the Matanikau River and Poha River, he voluntarily left a protected position to rescue wounded comrades. Despite intense enemy machine gun fire, he crossed a grassy knoll and carried one seriously injured companion to safety. While making a second rescue attempt, he was struck by enemy gunfire and died 10 November 1942.

[edit] Awarded the Silver Star

For his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity under hostile fire Private First Class Manuel was awarded the Silver Star posthumously.

[edit] Namesake

USS Maurice J. Manuel (DE-351) was named in his honor. She was laid down by Consolidated Steel Corp., Orange, Texas, 22 December 1943; launched 19 February 1944; sponsored by Mrs. Leona Manuel; and commissioned at Orange 30 June 1944, Lt. Comdr. William M. Lowry in command.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.