On 14 March 1945, Pvt Franklin Sigler’s unit was advancing toward the last Japanese stronghold northern tip of Iwo Jima, paying for every yard. When their leader was hit, Sigler took command, leading the charge against an enemy emplacement and fearlessly directing his machine gun and rocket fire into cave openings. Despite being wounded himself, Sigler carried 3 wounded men to safety, returning to his squad to direct their fire until he was evacuated to an aid station.