Taking On a Machine Gun Emplacement
By Raymond Greene
(As Told by his son, Erwin Greene)

There was a Japanese machine gun emplacement on Attu killing a lot of allied soldiers. Three volunteers were selected to knock out the emplacement. All three were killed in their attempt. Another group of volunteers made an attempt, and they too gave their lives.

Raymond was in the third group of volunteers. All he remembered was running like hell. There was a lot of covering fire, with bullets flying from both directions around his feet and over his head.

At this point, Raymond was not sure what happened, but he thinks an explosion knocked him out. He was presumed dead and left in a hole. It was some time before he knew where or who he was. He was alone and it was cold. Raymond eventually got back to his command. The other two volunteers with him were killed.

Five years after the war ended, Raymond entered the VA Hospital in Topeka, Kansas where he was diagnosed as having Acute Schizophrenia. He died a peaceful death, but for much of his life he was neglected and forgotten, deserted by those he loved because of his illness. For much of his life he was institutionalized. He lost his family and his ability to work.

When Raymond died, however, his country did not forget him. He was given a military funeral.

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It was at this funeral that I discovered he had been awarded the Bronze Star. I would appreciate hearing from anyone that may have known my father, or could tell me anything more about him and the men he served with. Dad never told me he was decorated. He said the only reason he told me this story was to ask me not to volunteer for anything! To the two volunteers who were killed, and to all the veterans of that war and their families, I say God Bless you all!

Erwin Greene