Michael Edward Flynn

First Lieutenant

United States Marine Corps Reserve

Michael Edward Flynn, the youngest child of Michael Edward and Louise F. Schach Flynn, was born on 31 August 1920, in Burlington, Iowa.

Michael graduated from Burlington High School, Class of 1938, and Burlington Junior College.  He later attended the University of Texas as a pre-law student.

Michael entered the United States Marine Corps Reserves in October 1943 and left for the Pacific Theater of Operations in November 1944.  On 18 June 1945, Michael was leading an advance patrol up a steep rugged slope on Okinawa’s southern tip, to establish a company command post for the Marine’s 6th Division, 22nd Regiment.  There the patrol was pinned down by heavy Japanese fire.  As he moved among the coral crags of the shell torn Kunishi Ridge, Michael was struck in the head by a snipers bullet.  He died a few minutes later.  Throughout the entire campaign, he was conspicuous in the leadership of a machine gun platoon, being among the first to reach the crest of bitterly defended Sugar Loaf Hill.  However, Michael is remembered for other reaches.  He was the best liked man in his battalion and was known throughout the regiment for his kind, gentle manner, and his complete selflessness.  He had the complete respect of his fellow officers, and many of the men in the lines knew the warmth of his smile, the courage gained from his presence with them in action.  But the greatest tribute was paid by Platoon Sergeant Elbert C. Black, Jr. of Raleigh, North Carolina.  Sergeant Black lost his life in an effort to drag Michael to safety after he had been hit.

He was survived by his mother; two sisters, Frances Louise and Helen Gertrude; and one brother, Edward Albert.  He was preceded in death by his father; one sister, Eleanor Mary; and one brother, Robert Michael.

Among his awards and decorations is the Bronze Star.

Source of information:

1.   National World War II Memorial veteran’s registry; http://www.wwiimemorial.com

2.   The Burlington Hawk-Eye Gazette, 23 July 1945, page 2.

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