patrol which savagely attacked with rifle fire and grenades. Quick to act when the lives of the small group were endangered by two grenades which landed directly in front of them, Private First Class Lucas unhesitatingly hurled himself over his comrades upon one grenade and pulled the other one under him, absorbing the whole blasting force of the explosions in his own body in order to shield his companions from the concussion and murderous flying fragments. By his inspiring action and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, he not only protected his comrades from certain injury or possible death, but also enabled them to rout the Japanese patrol and continue the advance. His exceptionally courageous initiative and loyalty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Lucas and the United States Naval Service. See also List of Medal of Honor recipients for World War II List of Medal of Honor recipients for the Battle of Iwo Jima Notes References External links Medal of Honor Interviews at the National WWII Museum 1928 births 2008 deaths United States Marines United States Marine Corps personnel of World War II United States Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipients Battle of Iwo Jima Deaths from leukemia Deaths from cancer in Mississippi People from Plymouth, North Carolina World War II recipients of the Medal of Honor United States Army officers Child soldiers in World War II