John H. Pruitt

John Henry Pruitt (October 4, 1896 – October 4, 1918) was a United States Marine during World War I and is one of only 19 people who have received two Medals of Honor.

John Henry Pruitt was born on October 4, 1896, in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He entered military service from Phoenix, Arizona, in May 1917.

As a corporal in the Marine Corps, Pruitt attacked and captured two enemy machine guns, and later captured forty of the enemy. Killed by shell-fire on his 22nd birthday, the U.S. Army and later the U.S. Navy would award him the Medal of Honor for his bravery a day earlier on October 3, 1918, at the Battle of Blanc Mont Ridge, France.

His remains were returned to the United States and buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Medal of Honor

Army citation

Pruitt single-handedly attacked two machineguns, capturing them and killing two of the enemy. He then captured 40 prisoners in a dugout nearby.This gallant Marine was killed soon afterward by shellfire while he was sniping at the enemy.

Navy citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy at Blanc Mont Ridge, France, October 3, 1918. Corporal Pruitt single-handed attacked two machine-guns, capturing them and killing two of the enemy. He then captured 40 prisoners in a dugout nearby. This gallant soldier was killed soon afterward by shell-fire while he was sniping the enemy.

Namesake

The United States Navy named a destroyer USS Pruitt in his honor and he was listed in Pershing's 100. Pruitt Hall on Marine Corps Base Quantico is named for him.

Decorations

Pruitt's military decorations and awards include:

1st row	Medal of Honor w/ gold star for second award
2nd row	Silver Star w/ two bronze oak leaf clusters			Purple Heart w/ gold award star			World War I Victory Medal w/ silver service star
3nd row	Médaille militaire			Croix de guerre 1914–1918 w/ bronze palm			Croce al Merito di Guerra