Politics & Government
Iwo Jima, the Navy Cross and a Local Connection
A day after Army Capt. William Swenson received the Medal of Honor, we look back at one Gambrills resident honored by the Navy for his heroism on a Japanese island 68 years ago.
A grateful nation took time Tuesday to watch Army Capt. William Swenson receive the Medal of Honor for his courageous acts during a battle in the Afghan War. He is one of six living recipients of the nation's highest military honor.
Anne Arundel County is home to many men and women who have served honorably, and Patch took some time to see if there were any local recipients of the Medal of Honor or similar recognitions.
Our research came across one man, a World War II veteran from Gambrills who received the Navy Cross. Outside of the Medal of Honor, it is the highest honor given by the U.S. Navy.
Capt. Charles S. Sands of the Marine Corps Reserve was recognized for his acts on the Japanese island of Iwo Jima on Feb. 28, 1945. According to a citation available on MilitaryTimes.com, Sands maneuvered his tank over difficult terrain to ward off enemy fire.
"His gallant fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service," the citation reads.
Patch was not immediately able to find out information on Capt. Sands current whereabouts or if he is still living. But we'll update if we learn more.
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