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Capt. Henry T. Elrod became the first American aviator to be awarded the Medal of Honor during World War II due to his efforts in the defense of Wake Island against the Japanese. Elrod shot down two enemy aircraft and became the first man to sink a major warship by small caliber bombs delivered from a fighter-type aircraft. After his plane was disabled by hostile fire, Elrod took control of a flank on the ground in defense of the island and he and his men fought vigorously against the Japanese. On 23 December, Elrod led his men with bold aggressiveness until he fell, mortally wounded. His superb skill as a pilot, daring leadership and unswerving devotion to duty distinguished him among the defenders of Wake Island. He gallantly gave his life for his country. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Cpl. Cody Lemons/Released)
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USMCJapaneseMedal of HonorUnited States Marine CorpsMarine Corps Air Station Cherry PointU.S. Marine CorpsWWIIWorld War IIMarinesaviatorMOHMCAS Cherry PointWake IslandBattle of Wake Islanddefenders of Wake IslandDecember 1941
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