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An ‘Old Breed’ Marine Describes Leading Men into Combat on Peleliu and Okinawa
Published 2 years ago
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Colonel Louis Schott had just finished playing a game of college ice hockey when he learned about the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in his hotel room. Upon returning home, Schott immediately enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and would become part of the oldest and most highly decorated Marine infantry division, the 1st Marine Division - known as “the old breed”.
Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, the young platoon leader would find himself leading a rifle platoon onto the beaches of Peleliu and the carnage that ensued. Of the 44 marines that Schott led ashore, 30 were killed in combat - Schott himself would be wounded and evacuated on the 11th day of battle.
Not out of the fight, Schott returned to his men in time for the next invasion, the battle of Okinawa. On Okinawa, Schott would distinguish himself in combat once again and be recommended for a Silver Star for his actions.
On August 10, 2021 Colonel Louis J. Schott turned 101 years old.
