Lawson H. M. Sanderson

Lawson Harry McPhearson Sanderson (July 22, 1895 - June 11, 1973) was an aviation pioneer of the United States Marine Corps with the rank of Major General. He is most noted for his effort in development of the Dive bombing technique. As Commanding officer of the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Sanderson accepted the Japanese surrender of Wake Island at the end of the World War II.

Biography
He was born on July 22, 1895, in Shelton, Washington as the son of game warden, Lewis Sanderson (1857-1941), and his wife Ruby (1861-1956).

Decorations
Here is the ribbon bar of Major general Lawson H. M. Sanderson:

Legion of Merit citation
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Lawson H. M. Sanderson (MCSN: 0-860), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States. From 17 October 1942 to 31 December 1942, Colonel Sanderson served as Operations Officer of the FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing at Guadalcanal, British Solomon Islands. In this capacity he was charged with the coordination, supervision and tactical employment of all Army, Navy and Marine Corps aircraft based at Guadalcanal. He repeatedly exposed himself to enemy bombing, shelling by ground artillery and naval guns, and on some occasions when shells were bursting within a very short distance, when it was necessary to the task at hand. His efficient conduct of the operations of our aircraft, combined with his coolness and devotion to duty under fire have provided an excellent example to all personnel associated with him.