The concept of a Medal of Honor or merit was first conceived during the Civil War. Since then there have been 3,495 recipients of the Medal of Honor and today 78 are still alive. Jack Lucas was the youngest Marine recipient of the medal. While serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during action against enemy forces on Iwo Jima, 20 February 1945, Jack Lucas was only 17 years old.
The citation reads:
“Quick to act when the lives of the small group of marines were endangered by 2 grenades which landed directly in front of them, Pfc. Lucas unhesitatingly hurled himself over his comrades upon 1 grenade and pulled the other under him, absorbing the whole blasting forces of the explosions in his own body in order to shield his companions from the concussion and murderous flying fragments. By his inspiring action and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, he not only protected his comrades from certain injury or possible death but also enabled them to rout the enemy patrol and continue the advance.”
Jack was also awarded the Purple Heart; Presidential Unit Citation; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one bronze star; American Campaign Medal; and the World War II Victory Medal.
After the war, Jack Lucas earned a degree in business from High Point College and graduated in 1956. He was an active brother in the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity and a member of the Veteran’s Club. His autobiography was told in the book, Indestructible: the unforgettable story of a marine hero at the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Jack Lucas passed away on June 5, 2008, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, at the age of 80.
High Point University is very proud have this Medal of Honor on display for students, staff, faculty and visitors to view. It is housed in Smith Library and was donated by the widow in October of 2008.