Francis B. Wai-Honolulu, HI
Posted by: 
Don.Morfe
N 21° 18.846 W 157° 50.706
4Q E 619780 N 2357349
World War II Medal of Honor Recipient for action in Leyte, Philippine Islands on October 20, 1944. He was killed in action. He is buried in the National Cemetery of the Pacific in Section Q, Site 1194.
Waymark Code: WMXAT9
Location: Hawaii, United States
Date Posted: 12/18/2017
Views: 0
He was born on April 14, 1917 in Honolulu, HI and died on October 20, 1944 in Leyte, Philippine Islands. His Medal of Honor information and citation is: *WAI, FRANCIS B.
• Rank and organization: Captain, 34th Infantry
• Place and date: October 20, 1944, Leyte, Philippine Islands
Citation: Captain Francis B. Wai distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action, on 20 October 1944, in Leyte, Philippine Islands. Captain Wai landed at Red Beach, Leyte, in the face of accurate, concentrated enemy fire from gun positions advantageously located in a palm grove bounded by submerged rice paddies. Finding the first four waves of American soldiers leaderless, disorganized, and pinned down on the open beach, he immediately assumed command. Issuing clear and concise orders, and disregarding heavy enemy machine gun and rifle fire, he began to move inland through the rice paddies without cover. The men, inspired by his cool demeanor and heroic example, rose from their positions and followed him. During the advance, Captain Wai repeatedly determined the locations of enemy strong points by deliberately exposing himself to draw their fire. In leading an assault upon the last remaining Japanese pillbox in the area, he was killed by its occupants. Captain Wai's courageous, aggressive leadership inspired the men, even after his death, to advance and destroy the enemy. His intrepid and determined efforts were largely responsible for the rapidity with which the initial beachhead was secured. Captain Wai's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.
Armed Service: Army
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