Sioux Falls in Minnehaha County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Willibald C. Bianchi
October 7, 2022
1. Willibald C. Bianchi Marker
Near Bagac, Bataan Province, Philippine Islands,
3 February 1942 G.O. No.: 11, 5 March 1942
Born 12 March 1915, New Ulm, Minnesota
Entered service at New Ulm, Minnesota
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy on 3 February 1942, near Bagac, Province of Bataan, Philippine Islands. When the rifle platoon of another company was ordered to wipe out two enemy machine gun nests, 1st Lt. Bianchi voluntarily, and of his own initiative, advanced with the platoon leading part of the men. When wounded early in the action by two bullets through the left hand he did not stop for aid but discarded his rifle and began firing a pistol. He located a machine gun nest and personally silenced it with grenades. When wounded the second time by two machine gun bullets through the chest muscles, 1st Lt. Bianchi climbed to the top of an American tank, manned its antiaircraft gun, and fired into strongly held enemy position until he was knocked completely off the tank by a third severe wound.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War, World II. In addition, it is included in the Medal of Honor Recipients series list. A significant historical date for this entry is February 3, 1942.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Isaac N. Fry (here, next to this marker); Charles D. Roberts (a few steps from this marker); Michael John Fitzmaurice (a few steps from this marker); Medal of Honor Garden (a few steps from this marker); Woodrow Wilson Keeble (a few steps from this marker); Arlo L. Olson (a few steps from this marker); Patrick Henry Brady (a few steps from this marker); Gold Star Families Memorial Monument (a few steps from this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Sioux Falls.
October 7, 2022
2. Willibald C. Bianchi Marker (right)
Credits. This page was last revised on October 17, 2022. It was originally submitted on October 16, 2022. This page has been viewed 90 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 16, 2022.
