Medal of Honor: Grant Frederick Timmerman – World War II, July 8, 1944

Name: Grant Frederick Timmerman
Rank: Sergeant
Conflict: World War II
Unit: 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, U.S. Marine Corps
Date of Action: July 8, 1944
Location: Saipan, Marianas Islands

Summary of Action:
On the embattled island of Saipan, Sergeant Grant Timmerman was leading from the turret of his Sherman tank, supporting a hard-fought Marine assault through a maze of Japanese trenches and pillboxes. Exposed but undeterred, he called out a warning to nearby infantry as he prepared to fire the tank’s main gun. In that moment, a Japanese grenade arced toward the open hatch. Without hesitation, Timmerman threw himself over the opening, using his body to shield his crew from the blast. He died instantly—sacrificing himself so that others might live. His selfless act of heroism remains one of the most profound examples of battlefield valor in Marine Corps history.

Medal of Honor Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as tank commander serving with the 2d Battalion, 6th Marines, 2d Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 8 July 1944. Advancing with his tank a few yards ahead of the infantry in support of a vigorous attack on hostile positions, Sgt. Timmerman maintained steady fire from his antiaircraft sky mount machinegun until progress was impeded by a series of enemy trenches and pillboxes. Observing a target of opportunity, he immediately ordered the tank stopped and, mindful of the danger from the muzzle blast as he prepared to open fire with the 75mm., fearlessly stood up in the exposed turret and ordered the infantry to hit the deck. Quick to act as a grenade, hurled by the Japanese, was about to drop into the open turret hatch, Sgt. Timmerman unhesitatingly blocked the opening with his body holding the grenade against his chest and taking the brunt of the explosion. His exceptional valor and loyalty in saving his men at the cost of his own life reflect the highest credit upon Sgt. Timmerman and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.