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.
Branch
Marine Corps Regular
Service Number 860446
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.
Memorials
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.