It is no secret that the United States Marine Corps is one of the most decorated branches of the US military. Throughout its history, Marines have been honored for their service and bravery on the battlefield. But few Marines have achieved the level of acclaim as Major General Merritt A. Edson. Edson is considered to be the most decorated Marine in World War II.
Edson was born in 1897 in Rutland, Vermont and enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 1917. After graduating from the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School in 1918, he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and assigned to the 5th Marines in France. By the end of the war, Edson had earned the Silver Star for his service in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. His career in the Marine Corps would continue to be distinguished over the years, with numerous awards and decorations.
At the start of World War II, Edson was given command of the 1st Raider Battalion. The unit's first mission was the famous Makin Island Raid, which was a surprise attack on Japanese forces in the Pacific. The raid was a success, and Edson was awarded the Navy Cross and the Legion of Merit for his leadership. He was also promoted to the rank of colonel.
Edson and his Raiders were then sent to Guadalcanal to take part in the campaign to retake the island from Japanese forces. Edson fought in numerous battles and was eventually promoted to the rank of brigadier general. During the fight for Henderson Field, Edson commanded the defense of the airfield against an intense Japanese offensive. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, Edson and his troops managed to hold off the Japanese attack and eventually forced them to retreat. For his efforts, Edson was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Following the conclusion of the war, Edson was promoted to Major General and was awarded several more military honors. In total, he was awarded seven medals, including two Navy Crosses, two Legions of Merit, two Bronze Stars, and the Medal of Honor. These honors make him the most decorated Marine in World War II, a distinction that he holds to this day.
Throughout his career in the Marine Corps, Edson exemplified the core values of the Corps. His leadership and courage in the face of danger are an inspiration to all who serve in the United States Armed Forces today. Major General Merritt A. Edson will forever be remembered as the most decorated Marine in World War II.
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