An American Hero - Gerald Edward Roebuck

A dear uncle to my father, and hero to our country, passed from this world yesterday. Gerald Edward Roebuck died on October 19, 2009. He is survived by many including his wife Marguerite of 64 years, two sons, and many grandkids/great grandkids.

My father often spoke of his uncle who had a profound impact on his life at a young age and I am delighted and privileged to write this brief piece of history of this man who lived a life of dedication to our country. Perhaps, we can take a moment and praise our Lord that we are blessed in the gift of men and women who are willing to sacrifice their own comforts and lives for our freedoms.

In the brief words of my father, we are sharing his service in the military:

Gerald Roebuck enlisted in the US Navy before the attack of Pearl Harbor and the start of WWII. He was assigned as a Pharmacist Mate with the newly formed Marine Raiders. He served with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion under Colonel "Red" Mike Edson which was part of the 1st Marine Division. In August 1942, this division assaulted Tulagi (Japanese HQ near Guadalcanal) and after this mission the battalion joined the division for operations against Japan on Guadalcanal. Following the battles in Guadalcanal, Gerald was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism at bloody ridge while aiding wounded Marines, exposing himself to enemy fire. Gerald was wounded but continued evacuating and aiding Marines in the open, while completely surrounded by Japanese forces, until a second wound rendered him unable to stand. Following the battle, he was awarded the Navy Cross by Admiral "Bull" Halsey.

A photo of Marine Raiders landing on Tulagi in 1942.

Following WWII, Gerald served in almost every division of the military. He later re-enlisted in the newly formed US Air Force and retired as a Master Sargent. Following his military journey, he served the public in the Health Department in Montgomery Alabama. Gerald died at the age of 86.

Although I have very few direct memories of my fathers mothers family and her siblings, I sincerely appreciate my dads testimony and fondness of his uncle and his sincere appreciation of this family hero. I praise God for Uncle Gerald's service to our country and pray for peace and comfort to his surviving family. May God rest your soul Uncle Gerald and blessings to your family.