Born: April 5th, 1923; Orange, NJ
Died: January 31st, 1944; Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands
Navy Cross Citation
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class James R. Zarillo (MCSN: 451610), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as a light machine gunner serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces during the battle of Namur island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, 1 February 1944. Directed to bring the fire of his gun on a hostile pillbox which had pinned down his assault team in an exposed position in front of the lines, Private First Class Zarillo attempted to carry out these orders but, due to the nature of the terrain, was unable to fire effectively on the enemy emplacement. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, he took his machine gun in his arms and daringly launched a lone attack against the Japanese position, destroying it before he was fatally wounded. Private First Class Zarillo's valiant spirit of self-sacrifice and extreme bravery were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Private First Class James Rocco Zarillo was assigned to the 4th Marine Division.
James received the
Served during World War II
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The contained information on James Rocco Zarillo is gathered and extracted from military records from a variety of sources. This material in no way represents this serviceman's complete military record; we welcome additional material. If you can help add to Private First Class James Zarillo's military record please contact us. This can include award citations and photos. 4MARDIV . 3rd Bn, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division.
2/1/1944 NC
3rd Bn, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division
World War II, 1941-1945
KIA
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