New Jersey’s John Basilone gave everything and changed the course of history

He was a true hero, a man who fought and sacrificed his life for the true cause of freedom in World War II.

He served twice in the Army and then enlisted in the Marines. He was from Raritan Borough, New Jersey, and attended St. Bernard Parochial School. He was a quiet man who just did what he had to do. He was John Basilone.

So many of our soldiers were killed in World War II, and so many sacrificed their lives for the protection of our country. They are all heroes. There are stories about other soldiers who have performed acts of heroism because that was the fabric of who they were. We remember them all this long holiday weekend and remain grateful and humbled by their service for this great country.

John Basilone’s story is amazing.

After serving three years in the U.S. Army, John enlisted in the U.S. Marines, rose quickly to the rank of gunnery sergeant, and deployed to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba.

From there, he was deployed to the battle of Guadalcanal in 1942 and engaged in a fight with a Japanese unit that had more firepower and men. He defeated that group of Japanese and was one of only three Marines to survive the battle. Back home, he received the Medal of Honor for his bravery and success.

In February 1945, after being deployed to Iwo Jima, John Basilone was killed in action on the first day of the engagement.

He was killed when he single-handedly fought off an enemy blockhouse and led a Marine tank through an open mine field. John Basilone was honored with the Navy Cross and received another Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart.

I read his story and think, what kind of man has such courage, such drive to go through the actions that he did? I remind myself that this is what a hero is all about. My brief description of his heroism does not do it justice but if it reminds you to thank our men and women who have lost their lives fighting for this country, then I am satisfied.