Joseph Scarchilli

On 21 February 1945, BLT 2-24 received orders to continue the assault on – and, hopefully, capture of – Motoyama Airfield #2 on Iwo Jima. “The attack progressed slowly against extremely heavy machine gun crossfires from numerous pillboxes and bunkers,” noted the battalion’s report. “Enemy rifle fire was steady and accurate… Assault teams employing demolitions and flamethrowers were used steadily throughout the day’s fighting.” They managed to gain 225 yards before halting for the night, but were still 300 yards short of the airfield.

Corporal Joseph Scarchilli and Platoon Sergeant Joseph F. Lorette were among those involved in the attack. Both Marines were veterans of three previous battles and well respected in their company. On Saipan, they volunteered to rescue wounded buddies while under fire, and both were decorated for valor – Scarchilli with the Bronze Star, while Lorette received the Silver Star. As a demolition specialist, Scarchilli was probably kept busy attacking pillboxes and fortifications during the 21 February attack. Unfortunately, a sniper’s bullet ended his life before the day was out.

PFC Dave J. Carey was nearby and witnessed not only Scarchilli’s death, but Lorette’s final act of friendship – spreading a poncho over the fallen Marine.