Born: February 24, 1924
Died:
Campaigns Served: Namur (wounded), Tinian (wounded)
Highest Rank Attained: Private First Class
Decorations: Bronze Star, Purple Heart with Gold Star
George Claar was one of the original members of Baker Company, 24th Marines. He served as a mortarman with the company's Weapons Platoon.
Claar survived the brutal banzai attack that his company weathered on Namur only to be wounded while the regiment mopped up the island. He was hit and evacuated on February 3, possibly the victim of a bypassed sniper. Claar was evacuated, but returned to the company within weeks.
George Claar in dress blues. Photo from "Young American Patriots (1941 - 1945)"
George Claar's participation in the battle of Saipan is unclear; he is listed on the battalion muster rolls as Missing In Action for the entire campaign. He reappeared on July 14, joining the battalion as they rested on the newly-conquered island, then made the landing on Tinian. Claar lasted six days on Tinian before being seriously wounded. He was evacuated and sent to a hospital for recovery.
Claar had been hit badly enough to warrant a discharge; he was released from the Marine Corps on March 23, 1945.