JOSEPH E. WOOD DIED A HERO IN OKINAWA BATTLE
Joseph W. Wood, formerly of Blairsburg, now of Stockton, Cal., has received a letter from the marine corps giving some details of the death of his son, Joe, on June 20, in Okinawa.
The letter from Capt. Walls, U.S.M.C., says in part:
“Joseph Ellsworth Wood was killed in action against the Japanese forces on Okinawa on June 20, 1945. He died heroically while wiping out an enemy machine gun position single handed. This same gun struck him down even as he accounted for it. He saved the men of his platoon and gave his own life. His death has instantaneous; he was shot through the chest. For this heroic action he has been recommended for an award.
“Not only has he upheld the highest traditions of the marine corps, but he has added to them. The men of this company will not forget him.
“Joseph was buried in the First marine division cemetery on Okinawa with full military and religious rites.”
Source: Daily Freeman Journal, Webster City, IA - Sept. 28, 1945
Joseph Ellsworth Wood was born Feb. 2, 1926 to Joseph William and Pearl Almina ‘Cora’ Wentworth Wood. He died June 20, 1945 and is buried in Golden Gate National Cemetery, San Bruno, CA.
Pvt. Wood was awarded the Navy Cross (posthumously) for his heroism.
Sources:
ancestry.com
World War II Memorial
World War II Honored
