A One-Man Advance: Pvt. Dale Merlin Hansen

Private Dale Merlin Hansen served in the Marine Corps during World War II. On May 7th, 1945, during the Battle of Okinawa, Hansen took matters into his own hands and crawled into an exposed, advanced position. He fired his rocket launcher, destroying an important Japanese pillbox before his weapon was broken by enemy fire. Finding a nearby rifle, he continued his advance, killing four enemies before it jammed. He then fought two more off with the butt of his weapon and took cover. From there, he was able to arm himself with several grenades and a new weapon. He advanced again, killing eight enemies and destroying a strong enemy mortar position all on his own. Sadly, three days later, Hansen was mortally wounded by a sniper round while fighting at Dakeshi Ridge. On May 30th, 1946, Private Dale Merline Hansen was posthumously awarded for his bravery and indomitable determination during the Battle of Okinawa.