Allan Masaharu Ohata, SGT

Allan Masaharu Ohata (September 13, 1918 – October 17, 1977) was a soldier in the 100th Infantry Battalion who received the Medal of Honor, the highest decoration for valor in the United States military, for action in Cerasuolo, Italy during World War II. Along with Mikio Hasemoto, who also received the medal, he helped repel a German attack on his unit's left flank. He was originally awarded the Distinguished Service Cross which was eventually upgraded to the Medal of Honor upon military review on June 21, 2000.

Medal of Honor citation

Ohata, Allan M.

Rank and organization:Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company B, 100th Infantry Battalion (Separate)

Place and date:Cerasuolo, Italy, November 29, 1943

Entered service at:Schofield Barracks, Hawaii

Born:September 13, 1918, Honolulu, Hawaii

Citation:

Sergeant Allan M. Ohata distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 29 and November 30, 1943, near Cerasuolo, Italy. Sergeant Ohata, his squad leader, and three men were ordered to protect his platoons left flank against an attacking enemy force of 40 men, armed with machine guns, machine pistols, and rifles. He posted one of his men, an automatic rifleman, on the extreme left, 15 yards from his own position. Taking his position, Sergeant Ohata delivered effective fire against the advancing enemy. The man to his left called for assistance when his automatic rifle was shot and damaged. With utter disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Ohata left his position and advanced 15 yards through heavy machine gun fire. Reaching his comrades position, he immediately fired upon the enemy, killing 10 enemy soldiers and successfully covering his comrades withdrawal to replace his damaged weapon. Sergeant Ohata and the automatic rifleman held their position and killed 37 enemy soldiers. Both men then charged the three remaining soldiers and captured them. Later, Sergeant Ohata and the automatic rifleman stopped another attacking force of 14, killing four and wounding three while the others fled. The following day he and the automatic rifleman held their flank with grim determination and staved off all attacks. Staff Sergeant Ohatas extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.