Born: October 8, 1924
Died: March 13, 1945
Private First Class William B. North, Jr. was a World War II veteran was killed in action on Iwo Jima. He was a son of William B. North, Sr. and Lucy Emma North.
He is buried in the Marietta National Cemetery in Georgia.
Adirondack Daily Enterprise, May 21, 1948
BRONZE STAR MEDAL GIVEN PFC. W. NORTH
The Bronze Star medal with Combat V and Presidential citation have been awarded posthumously to PFC William B. North, Jr., USMCR, late son of Mr. and Mrs. William B. North, Sr., of 48 Lake Flower avenue.
PFC. North was killed in action on Iwo Jima on March 13, 1945 shortly after saving the life of his buddy. He was a member of the Third Marine Division.
The medal award was made in Feb., 1947 and the citation reads "For heroic achievement while serving with Military Police Co., HQ. Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Division, in action against the enemy Jap force on Iwo Jima, March 13, 1945.
"Volunteering to carry two boxes of hand grenades to forward companies under concentrated attack by fanatic Japanese, PFC. North, although mortally wounded while making his way through devastating enemy rifle fire, staunchly continued to press forward until he reached his objective. By his cool courage, resolute fortitude and determined perseverance in the fulfillment of a vital mission, PFC. North enabled the besieged companies to repel the enemy, and his valiant devotion to duty in the face of tremendous odds upheld the highest tradition of the U. S. Naval Service.
"He gallantly gave his life for his country." The letter was signed for the President by James Forrestal, secretary of the Navy.
A letter from A. A. Vandegrlft. USMC, also stated "I wish to assure you my deep appreciation of the heroic achievement of your son, the late PFC. W. B. North, Jr., USMC, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima March 13, 1945 for which he was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star medal with Combat V and citation by the President.
"I tender again my sympathy and condolence in your bereavement. The Marine Corps shares with pride in the gallant action of your son."
Other awards which will be made to PFC. North posthumously are a Unit citation, two Presidential unit citations with stars and the Asiatic Pacific medal with two battle stars.
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