Medal of Honor: Jonathan M. Wainwright – U.S. Army – World War II

Name: Jonathan M. Wainwright
Rank: General
Branch: U.S. Army
Command: U.S. Army Forces in the Philippines
Place: Philippine Islands
Entered Service At: Skaneateles, New York
Born: Walla Walla, Washington
G.O. No.: 80, 19 September 1945

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Summary of Action

During the desperate defense of the Philippine Islands in the early months of World War II, General Jonathan M. Wainwright commanded American and Filipino forces fighting against overwhelming Japanese invasion forces.

Following the fall of Bataan, the remaining defenders withdrew to the fortress island of Corregidor, where they continued the fight despite severe shortages of food, ammunition, and medical supplies.

Throughout the siege, Wainwright repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire by visiting the front lines and encouraging his troops.

His presence among the soldiers under fire strengthened morale and reinforced the determination of the exhausted defenders.

As Japanese forces intensified their assault, the defenders of Corregidor fought with extraordinary courage despite facing overwhelming enemy strength.

Wainwright’s leadership during the final stand on the island became a symbol of American resistance during one of the darkest periods of the war.

Although the fortress ultimately fell, the heroic defense delayed the Japanese advance and inspired both Allied nations and oppressed peoples across the world.

His courage, determination, and steadfast leadership under impossible conditions reflected the highest traditions of the United States Army.

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Medal of Honor Citation

WAINWRIGHT, JONATHAN M.

Place and date: Philippine Islands, 12 March to 7 May 1942.

Birth: Walla Walla, Wash.

Distinguished himself by intrepid and determined leadership against greatly superior enemy forces. At the repeated risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in his position, he frequented the firing line of his troops where his presence provided the example and incentive that helped make the gallant efforts of these men possible. The final stand on beleaguered Corregidor, for which he was in an important measure personally responsible, commanded the admiration of the Nation’s allies. It reflected the high morale of American arms in the face of overwhelming odds. His courage and resolution were a vitally needed inspiration to the then sorely pressed freedom-loving peoples of the world.