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PRICE, Joseph D., 2d Lieutenant, USMCR. Wife, Mrs. Joseph D. Price, 705 W. 42d St., Houston, Tex + PRICE, Joseph Doyle, 18197, Co M, 3rd Bn, 2nd Mar, 2nd Mar Div, FMF, Gilbert Is, November 26, 1943, died of wounds + PRICE, Joseph Doyle, Second Lieutenant, O-018197, USMC, from Texas, Honolulu Memorial
Body Not Recovered
Other Comments:
Silver Star
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Joseph Doyle Price (MCSN: 0-18197), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the SECOND Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands on 20 and 21 November 1943. Wounded early on the first day of the assault while leading his heavy machine gun platoon, First Lieutenant Price courageously remained in action directing the advance of his men toward their objective throughout the day. Operating under heavy enemy fire, he personally supervised the installation of each of his guns for night defense, continuing in combat on the front lines until he collapsed. While being evacuated the following morning, First Lieutenant Price received a wound from Japanese mortar fire which later proved fatal. His brave fighting spirit and fortitude in utter disregard for his own safety were an inspiration to the men of his command and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country. Action Date: November 20 & 21, 1943
Central Pacific Campaign (1941-43)/Battle of Tarawa
From Month/Year
November / 1943
To Month/Year
November / 1943
Description The Battle of Tarawa (US code name Operation Galvanic) was a battle in the Pacific Theater of World War II, fought from November 20 to November 23, 1943. It took place at the Tarawa Atoll in the Gilbert Islands, located in what is now the nation of Kiribati. Nearly 6,400 Japanese, Koreans, and Americans died in the fighting, mostly on and around the small island of Betio.
The Battle of Tarawa was the first American offensive in the critical central Pacific region. It was also the first time in the war that the United States faced serious Japanese opposition to an amphibious landing. Previous landings met little or no initial resistance, but this time the 4,500 Japanese defenders were well-supplied and well-prepared, and they fought almost to the last man, exacting a heavy toll on the United States Marine Corps. The US had suffered similar casualties in other campaigns, for example over the six months of the Guadalcanal Campaign, but in this case the losses were incurred within the space of 76 hours.
