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New York Giant And Medal Of Honor Winner: 1st Lt Andrew Jackson Lummus



Jack Lummus in Uniform.jpg

His Medal of Honor citation reads:

Medal of Honor

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as leader of a Rifle Platoon attached to the 2d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 8 March 1945. Resuming his assault tactics with bold decision after fighting without respite for 2 days and nights, 1st Lt. Lummus slowly advanced his platoon against an enemy deeply entrenched in a network of mutually supporting positions. Suddenly halted by a terrific concentration of hostile fire, he unhesitatingly moved forward of his front lines in an effort to neutralize the Japanese position. Although knocked to the ground when an enemy grenade exploded close by, he immediately recovered himself and, again moving forward despite the intensified barrage, quickly located, attacked, and destroyed the occupied emplacement. Instantly taken under fire by the garrison of a supporting pillbox and further assailed by the slashing fury of hostile rifle fire, he fell under the impact of a second enemy grenade but, courageously disregarding painful shoulder wounds, staunchly continued his heroic 1-man assault and charged the second pillbox, annihilating all the occupants. Subsequently returning to his platoon position, he fearlessly traversed his lines under fire, encouraging his men to advance and directing the fire of supporting tanks against other stubbornly holding Japanese emplacements. Held up again by a devastating barrage, he again moved into the open, rushed a third heavily fortified installation and killed the defending troops. Determined to crush all resistance, he led his men indomitably, personally attacking foxholes and spider traps with his carbine and systematically reducing the fanatic opposition until, stepping on a land mine, he sustained fatal wounds. By his outstanding valor, skilled tactics, and tenacious perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds, 1st Lt. Lummus had inspired his stouthearted marines to continue the relentless drive northward, thereby contributing materially to the success of his regimental mission. His dauntless leadership and unwavering devotion to duty throughout sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.

1st Lt Lummus played TE for The New York Giants in 1941. He also played in the NFL Championship that same year against The Chicago Bears. After the game, Lummus enlisted in The Marine Corps Reserve. In October of 1942, Lummus the former Baylor University football star, and New York Giant, enrolled in Officer's Candidate School. Upon graduation, Lummus received orders for Camp Pendleton Ca, and the Marine Raiders. A forerunner of modern naval special operations, The Raiders had a short; but storied history. After The Marine Raiders were disbanded, Lummus was assigned to the 5th Marine Division. He was in the first wave of marines to land on Iwo Jima on February 19, 1945. After being motally wounded by a land mine, Lummus reportedly told a medical provider," It looks like The Giants lost a good end". To all who sacrifice, and have sacrificed, I say thank you for allowing me to live with freedoms and opportunities.God Bless, not just on Memorial Day, but everyday.