Remembering Heroism: The Valor of Hospital Apprentice First Class Robert E. Bush, United States Naval Reserve

By

Daniel Tobias Flint

As we reflect on the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord, it is essential to honor the pivotal role of the United States Navy during World War II. The Navy was instrumental in achieving victory in the Pacific and Atlantic theaters, providing critical support in amphibious assaults, securing vital supply lines, and engaging enemy forces at sea. Their unwavering dedication and bravery were crucial in turning the tide of the war. One extraordinary example of this heroism is Hospital Apprentice First Class Robert E. Bush of the United States Naval Reserve.

The Bravery of Robert E. Bush

On May 2, 1945, during the Battle of Okinawa, Hospital Apprentice First Class Robert E. Bush demonstrated conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life, going above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a rifle company. Amidst the chaos of artillery, mortar, and machinegun fire from well-fortified enemy positions, Petty Officer Bush fearlessly and tirelessly moved between casualties, attending to the wounded who fell under the relentless enemy barrages.

As the attack moved over a ridge top, Bush advanced to administer blood plasma to a Marine officer lying wounded on the exposed skyline. At this critical moment, the Japanese forces launched a fierce counterattack. Despite being in a perilously exposed position, Bush steadfastly maintained the flow of life-saving plasma. Holding the plasma bottle high with one hand, he drew his pistol with the other and fired into the advancing enemy ranks until he exhausted his ammunition. Undeterred, he quickly grabbed a discarded carbine and continued to engage the enemy, accounting for six of their soldiers despite sustaining serious wounds and losing one eye in the desperate battle.

Even after routing the hostile force, Bush's focus remained on his duty. Ignoring his own critical condition, he completed his mission, ensuring his officer patient was evacuated before accepting any medical treatment for himself. He collapsed only after attempting to walk to the battle aid station, a testament to his indomitable spirit and selflessness.

Petty Officer Bush's extraordinary initiative, immense personal valor, and unwavering devotion to duty brought great credit upon himself and embodied the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. His actions during the Battle of Okinawa stand as a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice exhibited by so many during World War II, ensuring their legacy endures as we commemorate their heroism 80 years later.

The Medal of Honor: A Legacy of Valor

The Medal of Honor is the most prestigious recognition bestowed upon a member of the Armed Forces in the United States of America. Established by President Abraham Lincoln in 1861, the Medal of Honor is our nation’s highest recognition of valor in combat. In the last 163 years, over 40,000,000 Americans have served in the U.S. Armed Forces since the Civil War. Only 3,515 have received the Medal of Honor, representing less than .01% of those who have served. This distinction commemorates those who were willing to risk their lives to protect and serve our country and the ideals we hold most dear. The National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation is dedicated to sharing the stories and values of these incredible heroes—and to inspire America to build upon their legacies. Darrell Utt

ABOVE AND BEYOND

"CONSPICUOUS GALLANTRY AND INTREPIDITY AT THE RISK OF LIFE ABOVE AND BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY"

Each Medal of Honor recipient has demonstrated utmost courage on the battlefield. While their stories are unique, there are values shared by each hero that have become central to the Medal and all it represents.

Through the National Medal of Honor Museum and Institute in Arlington, Texas, the National Medal of Honor Monument in Washington, D.C., and the National Medal of Honor Griffin Institute, we celebrate these legacies of sacrifice and courage so that we may recognize and develop these values within ourselves.

To learn more about how you can support this museum and be part of its historic journey, visit their website at https://mohmuseum.org/. The grand opening is scheduled for March 25, 2025. Join in and become a part of preserving and honoring the remarkable stories of valor and sacrifice showcased within its walls.