Hugh Gilbert “Buddy” Strickland was born on March 25, 1924, in Port Tampa City, Florida. At just 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on July 8, 1941, several months before America entered World War II.
Strickland served as a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division. He was deployed to the Pacific and fought during the Guadalcanal campaign, one of the first major Allied offensives of the war.
Strickland served as a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division. He was deployed to the Pacific and fought during the Guadalcanal campaign, one of the first major Allied offensives of the war.
On October 9, 1942, Hugh Gilbert Strickland was killed in action during the Third Battle of the Matanikau. He was only 18 years old. His remains were never recovered, and he remains listed as missing in action. He is memorialized on the Walls of the Missing and was awarded the Purple Heart for his sacrifice.
Hugh Gilbert Strickland left Port Tampa as a teenager and never returned home. His life represents the courage, service, and sacrifice of an entire generation of young Americans who answered their nation’s call.
American Legion Post 138 proudly bears his name so that his story, his service, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Hugh Gilbert Strickland left Port Tampa as a teenager and never returned home. His life represents the courage, service, and sacrifice of an entire generation of young Americans who answered their nation’s call.
American Legion Post 138 proudly bears his name so that his story, his service, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.