William J. Whaling
| William John Whaling | |
|---|---|
Whaling while served with 6th Marine Division
|
|
| Nickname(s) | "Wild Bill" |
| Born |
February 26, 1894 St. Cloud, Minnesota |
| Died | November 20, 1989 (aged 95) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Place of Burial | Arlington National Cemetery |
| Allegiance |
 United States of America
|
| Service/branch |
 United States Marine Corps
|
| Years of service | 1917–1954 |
| Rank |
 Major General
|
| Service number | 0-1049 |
| Commands held |
MCRD San Diego ADC of 1st Marine Division 1st Marine Regiment 29th Marine Regiment |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards |
Navy Cross Silver Star Legion of Merit (2) Bronze Star Medal Purple Heart (2) |
William John Whaling (February 26, 1894 – November 1989) was a highly decorated officer of the United States Marine Corps with the rank of major general, who was expert in the jungle warfare during the Pacific War. He also participated as a sport shooter in the 1924 Summer Olympics, where he finished in 12th place in the 25 m rapid fire pistol competition.
Whaling was born in St. Cloud, Minnesota, and enlisted in the Marine Corps in May 1917. He served as non-commissioned officer during the Battle of Belleau Wood, where he was wounded by the effects of the combat gas. Whaling was later commissioned second lieutenant in August 1918 and assigned to the staff of the 6th Marine Regiment. He distinguished himself during the Battle of Saint-Mihiel in September 1918 and was decorated with the Silver Star for gallantry in action.
At the time of Japanese Attack on Pearl Harbor, Whaling served within Marine Barracks there. He was transferred back to the 5th Marine Regiment, where took again command of the 2nd Battalion at the end of December 1941. Whaling was appointed executive officer of the 5th Marine Regiment on March 28, 1942. He was succeeded by Lieutenant Colonel Harold E. Rosecrans in the command of the 2nd Battalion.
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