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Melvin Greathouse

PFC Melvin Greathouse served with the Fifth Amphibian Truck Company, Fifth Marine Division
He was killed in action at Iwo Jima on 20 February 1945.

Created by potrace 1.16, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2019

Branch

Marine Corps Regular
Service Number 860446

Created by potrace 1.16, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2019

Current Status

Remains Not Recovered

Pursuit Category

This case is under Active Pursuit by DPAA

Capsule History

Pre-War Life

Birth

January 27, 1925
in Birmingham, AL

Parents

Jessie Oscar Greathouse
Lela E. (Ward) Greathouse

Education

Details unknown

Occupation & Employer

J. A. Jones Construction Company

Service Life

Entered Service

May 6, 1943
at Orlando, FL

Home Of Record

Warrior, AL

Next Of Kin

Parents, Jessie & Lela Greathouse

Military Specialty

Carpenter, Bridge
(MOS 035)

Individual Decorations

Silver Star (Iwo Jima)
Purple Heart (Iwo Jima)

Loss And Burial

Circumstances Of Loss

On 20 February 1945, the Fifth Amphibian Truck Company was assigned to land howitzers and ammunition for the 13th Marines on Iwo Jima. The DUKWs and their volatile cargo were quickly targeted by Japanese artillery and mortars, and unloading took place in a hurry under an intense bombardment.

At least one DUKW was hit and set on fire; the driver, PFC Melvin Greathouse, was badly wounded by shrapnel. Instead of seeking medical attention, Greathouse continued to pitch ammunition out of the burning truck until a second mortar shell dealt him a fatal injury. He was recommended for a posthumous Silver Star Medal for his actions.

Although Greathouse was confirmed dead after the shelling, his remains could not be recovered from the area.

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Amphibian Truck Driver serving with the Fifth Amphibian Truck Company, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 20 February 1945. Assigned the hazardous mission of unloading artillery ammunition and a fieldpiece, PFC Greathouse unhesitatingly set about the task in the face of terrific enemy artillery and mortar fire and worked steadily despite the grave hazards until his truck was hit by hostile fire and he was seriously wounded. Disregarding the intense pain of his wounds, he remained steadfast at his post of duty and continued unloading the urgently needed ammunition from his burning truck until struck down, mortally wounded, by a second hit from enemy mortar fire. By his determined perseverance, cool courage, and unswerving devotion to duty in the performance of a vital task, PFC Greathouse upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
Burial Information or Disposition

None; identifiable remains not recovered.

Next Of Kin Address

Address of parents, Jessie & Lela Greathouse

Location Of Loss

PFC Greathouse was last seen somewhere in the Fifth Marine Division sector, Iwo Jima.

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