William C. (Bill) Maki, Jr.
COLUMN: 4 ROW: 32
- Private First Class
- Served: October 14, 1943 – May 5, 1946
- World War II – North Appenines and Po Valley
- Light Truck Driver
- Awarded Victory Medal, American Theater Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 2 bronze battle stars, Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal
Deceased February 16, 1990. Interred Marenisco, Michigan.
PFC Maki of the 604th Field Artillery of the 10th Mountain Division received a citation for bravery in action on March 7, 1945 near LaBorro, Italy. When an intense mortar and artillery barrage wounded two men who were left lying in an exposed area. PFC Maki risked his own life during the height of fire to go to the aid of the injured soldiers. Finding that he would need help he continued through the dangerous area to a battalion aid station and directed the litter bearers in evacuating the wounded while still under fire.
William Maki was a life member and past commander of the Bessemer VFW Post 3678 and a past commander of the Bessemer American Legion Post 27, 40 & 8 Promenade. He was a member of the Bessemer Lions Club, Winchester Chamber of Commerce, Bessemer Fourth of July committee and Marty’s Goldenaires Drum and Bugle Corps. He was self employed in plumbing and heating and owned the Tall Timbers Supper Club in Winchester, Wisconsin.