Pulaski County Public Schools are proud to recognize United States Marine Corps Corporal Lewis Kenneth Bausell, a Pulaski County native, by officially naming the entrance to Pulaski County Middle School “Medal of Honor Way” in recognition of the ultimate sacrifice by Corporal Bausell for the cause of liberty and the idea of freedom that will forever define the
United States of America.
Corporal Bausell was born in Pulaski April 17, 1924. He enlisted in the Marine Corps at the age of 17 following the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He served with the 5th Marine Regiment of the 1st Marine Division during the Guadalcanal Campaign, Battle of Cape Gloucester, and the Battle of Peleliu.
On September 15, 1944, during the Battle of Peleliu, Corporal Bausell heroically threw himself on a grenade to save the lives of his fellow Marines. He died from his wounds September 18, 1944, and was buried at sea.
He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Franklin Roosevelt on June 11, 1945. Other honors bestowed upon Corporal Bausell were the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, four Bronze Stars, and the World War II Victory Medal.
On November 19, 1945, the United States Navy christened the U.S.S. Bausell in his honor. That ship served the Navy during the Korean and Vietnam wars.
There will be a reception immediately after the ceremony. The family of Corporal Bausell, current members of each branch of the Armed Forces, local Veterans Organizations, and elected officials and representatives will also be in attendance for this event.
Please join us as we recognize one of our finest.