Benjaimin Odeimin - born 19 Aug 1912 in Cross Village, son of Benedict Odeimin and Thresa Moanquay. Enlistment date July 1st, 1941. Killed In action WWII 10 October, 1944.
The
Battle of Angaur was a battle of the Pacific campaign in World War II,
fought on the island of Angaur in the Peleliu Islands from 17
September—22 October 1944. This battle was part of a larger Japenese
offensive campaign known as Operation Forager which ran from June 1944
to November 1944 in the Pacific Theater of Operations, and Operation
Stalemate II in particular resulting in an American Victory.
On 10 Oct 1944, Private Benjamin Odeimin, Ottawa
Indian from Cross Village, led a patrol to recover the bodies of two
fallen soldiers. In his heroic attempt, he made the ultimate sacrifice,
losing his life due to his efforts.
The Petoskey News Review of 31 Oct 1944 ran the following on page one.
During pow wow celebrations and
intermission in August of 1945 at Cross Village, his efforts were
recognized by the Anishawbek of his tribe. At this time, his mother,
Thresa Moanquay Odeimin was given his bronze star and purple heart.
The Escanaba Daily Press of 16 Aug 1945 ran the following on page four.
Like
many of the Odeimin families of Cross Village, Ben was known as a
gifted snow shoe maker. His father, Benedict Odeimin had already proceed
him in death in 1913.
Today, he rests in peace in Holy Cross Cemetery in Cross Village, his home, with a military headstone.
His legacy and contributions are now known to
his ancestors and we remember. There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. John 15:13
Information contributed by Scott Schwander.