HM3c William R. Charette, To better chow and warmer weather,

[Guide Plt.2129]

Simple burial planned for Medal of Honor recipient William R. Charette

Steve Begnoche - Managing Editor
Tuesday, March 20, 2012

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Medal of Honor recipient William R. Charette was a humble person.
“In following with Uncle Bill’s wishes, there will be no funeral or visitation,” his nephew Tom Ezdebski reports. “A simple military burial service will take place on Thursday at 1:30 at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. He will be buried next to his son, William A. Charette, who preceded him in death in 1991.”

The Ludington native graduated in 1950 from St. Simon High School (incorrect information was included in the story Monday).
According to Bob Gancarz, Free Soil, the Michigan Department of Transportation recently approved placing a sign honoring Charette at Ludington’s eastern city limit. The sign honoring the Jensen brothers’ winning the French Open doubles title was moved so the sign honoring Charette can be erected there today.
Gancarz said the sign will not only note that Charette was awarded the Medal of Honor but also that he selected the World War II remains that would be placed in the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery. To see a complete interview with Charette done at his Florida home in 2003, see today's Ludington Daily News in the eEdition online or at the newsstands.

And now a toast to the Brave: "Corpsman Up !!!!!" To warmer weather, better chop, and less time on duty call.

[BrotherMick]

I'm sure he was greeted at the Gates of Heaven................... Prayers for his family and friends.

[V8403]

He Retired from the Service as a HMCM, May he rest in Peace

Charette's official Medal of Honor citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces during the early morning hours. Participating in a fierce encounter with a cleverly concealed and well-entrenched enemy force occupying positions on a vital and bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, HC3c. Charette repeatedly and unhesitatingly moved about through a murderous barrage of hostile small-arms and mortar fire to render assistance to his wounded comrades. When an enemy grenade landed within a few feet of a marine he was attending, he immediately threw himself upon the stricken man and absorbed the entire concussion of the deadly missile with his body. Although sustaining painful facial wounds, and undergoing shock from the intensity of the blast which ripped the helmet and medical aid kit from his person, HC3c. Charette resourcefully improvised emergency bandages by tearing off part of his clothing, and gallantly continued to administer medical aid to the wounded in his own unit and to those in adjacent platoon areas as well. Observing a seriously wounded comrade whose armored vest had been torn from his body by the blast from an exploding shell, he selflessly removed his own battle vest and placed it upon the helpless man although fully aware of the added jeopardy to himself. Moving to the side of another casualty who was suffering excruciating pain from a serious leg wound, HC3c. Charette stood upright in the trench line and exposed himself to a deadly hail of enemy fire in order to lend more effective aid to the victim and to alleviate his anguish while being removed to a position of safety. By his indomitable courage and inspiring efforts in behalf of his wounded comrades, HC3c. Charette was directly responsible for saving many lives. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

[kmarier2001]

Rest In Peace HM3C William R.Charette. Thank you for your Service to our Country and to your unwavering devotion to your wounded Comrades. You will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers to your family and friends.

[DOCWILLEY]

Rest in Peace Brother...