Don C. Hempstead Full Narrative
Summary:
The Spokane native Don Carlos Hempstead studied Electrical Engineering at WSC from 1940-41 before entering the Marine Corps Reserve. Second Lieutenant Hempstead won the Navy Cross for his leadership in the landing on Parry Island (Marshall Islands) in FeDescription:
Don Carlos Hempstead was born and raised in Spokane, Washington. He entered WSC in 1940 as a member of the Marine Corps Reserve, majoring in Electrical Engineering while actively engaging in campus social life. In 1941 Hempstead was mobilized and served in the Pacific Theater as a second lieutenant. In February 1944, even though seriously wounded, he successfully led his platoon in warding off Japanese counterattacks in fierce hand-to-hand combat during the landing on Parry Island. He was awarded a Navy Cross for his heroic leadership. Sadly, Hempstead died of his wounds in July 1944.
People:
Don Carlos HempsteadLocation:
Location Description:
Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall islands