101 reactions · 10 comments | In episode 20 of History Traveler, I had the opportunity to visit the grave of Medal of Honor recipient John Basilone, who died on this day in 1945 on the island of Iwo Jima. While I was there, I stumbled across the grave of another Medal of Honor recipient who also gave his life at Iwo Jima. You can see the full episode here: https://youtu.be/rnmEeXuZSN4 | The History Underground | Facebook

"A one-man army" is how Gen. Douglas MacArthur described the only person to be awarded the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross and the Purple Heart – Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone whose uncommon valor was a common virtue during the Battle of Iwo Jima. We are Iwo. | U.S. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone was awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in combat at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, in October 1942. During brutal fighting with heavy casualties on both sides, he killed at least 38 Japanese soldiers. He returned home to a hero's welcome, including a parade featured in "Life" magazine. But he requested to return to combat, stating that he was just "a plain soldier" who belonged with his unit. On February 19, 1945, Basilone was killed in