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Introduction:
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon
an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States. Generally presented to its recipient by the
President of the United States of America in the name of Congress, it is often called the Congressional Medal of
Honor. For more information about the Medal of Honor, visit the official MOH website at the URL posted
below:
http://www.cmohs.org/medal/medal_history.htm.
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Summary (Korean War):
- U.S. Army – 79
- U.S. Marine Corps – 42
- U.S. Navy – 7
- U.S. Air Force – 4
- Total – 131
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Recipients (Korean War):
A
- Abrell, Charles G., Terre Haute, IN – USMC, E-2-1
- Adams, Stanley T., Olathe, KS – US Army, Co. A., 19th Inf. Regt.
B
- Barber, William E., West Liberty, KY – USMC, F-2-7
- Barker, Charles H., Pickens, SC – US Army, Co. K, 17th Inf. Regt, 7th Div.
- Baugh, William B., Harrison, OH – USMC, G-3-1
- Benfold, Edward C., Philadelphia, PA – USN, corpsman
- Bennett, Emory L., Cocoa, FL – US Army. Co. B., 15th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
- Bleak, David B., Shelley, ID – US Army, Medical Co., 223rd Inf. Reg., 40th Div.
- Brittin, Nelson V., Audubon, NJ – US Army, Co. I, 19th Inf. Regt.
- Brown, Melvin L., Mahaffey, PA – US Army, Co D, 9th Eng. Bat.
- Burke, Lloyd L., Stuttgart, AR – US Army. Co. G, 5th Cav. Regt., 1st Cav. Div.
- Burris, Tony K., Blanchard, OK – US Army, Co. L, 38th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
C
- Cafferata, Hector A., Jr., Montville, NJ – USMC, F-2-7
- Champagne, David B., Wakefield, RI – USMC, A-1-7
- Charette, William R., Ludington, MI – USN, corpsman
- Charlton, Cornelius H., New York, NY – US Army, Co. C, 24th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
- Christianson, Stanley R., Mindoro, WI – USMC, E-2-1
- Collier, Gilbert G., Tichnor, AR – US Army, Co. F, 223RD Inf. Regt., 40th Div.
- Collier, John W., Worthington, KY – US Army, Co. C, 27th Inf. Regt.
- Commiskey, Henry A., Hattiesburg, MS – USMC, C-1-1
- Coursen, Samuel S., Madison, NJ – US Army, Co C, 5th Cav., Regt.
- Craig, Gordon M., Elmwood, MA – US Army, Recon Co., 1st Cav. Div.
- Crump, Jerry K., Forest City, NC – US Army, Co. L, 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
D
- Davenport, Jack A., Mission, KS – USMC, G-3-5
- Davis, George A. Jr., Lubbock, TX – USAF, 334th Fighter Squad, 4th Fighter Gp, 5th AF
- Davis, Raymond G., Goggins, GA – USMC, 1-7
- Dean, William F., Berkeley, CA – US Army, 24th Inf. Div.
- Desiderio, Reginald B., El Monte, CA – US Army, Co. E, 27th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
- DeWert, Richard D., Taunton, MA – USN, corpsman
- Dewey, Duane E., South Haven, MI – USMC, E-2-5
- Dodd, Carl H., Kenvir, KY – US Army, Co. E, 5th Inf. Regt., 24th Inf. Div.
- Duke, Ray E., Whitwell, TN – US Army, Co. C, 21st Inf. Regt., 24th Inf. Div.
E
- Edwards, Junior D., Indianola, IA – US Army, Co. E, 23rd Inf. Regt., 2nd Inf. Div.
- Essebagger, John Jr., Holland, MI – US Army, Co. A, 7th Inf, Regt., 3rd Inf. Div.
F
- Faith, Don C. Jr., Washington, DC – US Army, 1st Bat., 32nd Inf. Regt., 7th Inf. Div.
G
- Garcia, Fernando L., Utado, P.R. – USMC, I-3-5
- George, Charles L., Whittier, NC – US Army, Co. C, 179th Inf. Regt., 45th Inf. Div.
- Gilliland, Charles L., Yellville, AK – US Army, Co. I, 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Inf. Div.
- Gomez, Edward, Omaha, NE – USMC, E-2-1
- Goodblood, Clair, Burnham, ME – US Army, Co. D, 7th Inf. Regt.
- Guillen, Ambrosio, El Paso, TX – USMC, F-2-7
H
- Hammond, Francis C., Alexandria, VA – USN, corpsman
- Hammond, Lester, Jr., Quincy, IL – US Army, Co. A, 187th Airborne
- Handrich, Melvin O., Manawa, WI – US Army, Co. C, 5th RCT
- Hanson, Jack G., Escatawpa, MS – US Army, Co. F, 31st Inf. Regt.
- Hartell, Lee R., Danbury, CT – US Army, Battery A, 15th FAB
- Harvey, Raymond, Pasadena, CA – US Army, Co. C, 17th Inf. Regt.
- Henry, Frederick F., Clinton, OK – US Army, Co. F, 28th Inf. Regt.
- Hernandez, Rodolfo P., Fowler, CA – US Army, Co. G, 187th Airborne
- Hudner, Thomas J., Jr., Fall River, MA – USN, pilot in Fighter Squad 32, USS Leyte
I
- Ingman, Einar H., Tomahawk, WI – US Army, Co. E, 17th Inf. Regt., 7th Div.
J
- Jecelin, William R., Baltimore, MD – US Army, Co. C, 35th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
- Johnson, James E., Pocatello, ID – USMC, J-3-7
- Jordan, Mack A., Collins, MA – US Army, Co. K, 21st Inf. Regt, 24th Div.
K
- Kanell, Billie G., Poplar Bluff, MO – US Army, Co. I, 35th Inf. Regt, 25th Div.
- Kaufman, Loren R., The Dalles, OR – US Army, Co. G, 9th Inf. Regt.
- Kelly, John D., Homestead, PA – USMC, C-1-7
- Kelso, Jack W., Fresno, CA – USMC, I-3-7
- Kennemore, Robert S., Greenville, SC – USMC, E-2-7
- Kilmer, John Edward – San Antonio, TX – USN, corpsman
- Knight, Noah O., Jefferson, SC – US Army, Co. F, 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
- Koelsch, John K., Scarborough, NY – USN, Navy helicopter rescue unit
- Kouma, Ernest R., Dwight, NE – US Army, Co. A, 72nd Tank Battalion
- Krzyzowski, Edward C., Cicero, IL – US Army, Co. B, 9th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Kyle, Darwin K., S. Charleston, WV – US Army, Co. K, 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
L
- Lee, Hubert L., Leland, MS – US Army, Co. I, 23rd Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Libby, George D., Casco, ME – US Army, Co. C, 3rd Engineer Combat Bat., 24th Div.
- Littleton, Herbert A., Nampa, ID – USMC, C-1-7
- Long, Charles R., Kansas City, MO – US Army, Co. M, 38th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Lopez, Baldomero, Tampa, FL – USMC, A-1-5
- Loring, Charles R., Kansas City, MO – USAF, 80th Fighter-Bomber Squad., 8th F-B Wing
- Lyell, William F., Old Hickory, TN – US Army, Co. F, 17th Inf. Regt., 7th Div.
Mc
- McGovern, Robert M., Washington, DC – US Army, Co. A, 5th Cav. Regt., 1st Cav. Div.
- McLaughlin, Alford L., Leeds, AL – USMC, L-3-5
M
- Martinez, Benito, Ft. Hancock, TX – US Army, Co. A, 27th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
- Matthews, Daniel P., Van Nuys, CA – USMC, F-2-7
- Mausert, Frederick W. III, Dresher, PA – USMC, B-1-7
- Mendonca, Leroy A., Honolulu, HI – US Army, Co. B, 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
- Millett, Lewis L., S. Dartmouth, MA – US Army, Co. E, 27th Inf. Regt.
- Mitchell, Frank N., Roaring Spring, TX – USMC, A-1-7
- Miyamura, Hiroshi H., Gallup, NM – US Army, Co. H, 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
- Mize, Ola L., Gadsden, AL – US Army, Co. K, 15th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
- Monegan, Walter C., Jr., Seattle, WA – USMC, F-2-1
- Moreland, Whitt L., Austin, TX – USMC, C-1-5
- Moyer, Donald R., Keego Harbor, MI – US Army, Co. E, 35th Inf. Regt.
- Murphy Raymond G., Pueblo, CO – USMC, C-1-5
- Myers, Reginal R., Boise, ID – USMC, 3-1
N
O
- Obregon, Eugene A., Los Angeles, CA – USMC, G-3-5
- O’Brien, George H. Jr., Big Spring, TX – USMC, H-3-7
- Ouellette, Joseph R., Lowell, MA – US Army, Co. H, 9th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
P
- Page, John U.D., St. Paul, MN – US Army, X Corps Artillery, 52nd Trans. Truck Bat.
- Pendleton, Charles F., Fort Worth, TX – US Army, Co. D, 15th Inf. Regt., 3rd Div.
- Phillips, Lee H., Ben Hill, GA – USMC, E-2-7
- Pililaau, Herbert K., Waianae, Hawaii – US Army, Co. C, 23rd Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Pittman, John A., Tallula, MS – US Army, Co. C, 23rd Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Pomeroy, Ralph E., Quinwood, WV – US Army, Co. E, 31st Inf. Regt., 7th Div.
- Porter, Donn F., Ruxton, MD – US Army, Co. G, 14th Inf. Regt., 24th Div.
- Poynter, James I., Downey, CA – USMC, A-1-7
Q
R
- Ramer, George H., Lewisburg, PA – USMC, I-3-7
- Red Cloud, Mitchell Jr., Friendship, WI – US Army, Co. E, 19th Inf. Regt., 24th Div.
- Reem, Robert D., Elizabethtown, PA – USMC, H-3-7
- Rodriguez, Joseph C., San Bernardino, CA – US Army, Co. F, 17th Inf. Regt., 7th Div.
- Rosser, Ronald E., Crooksville, OH – US Army, Heavy Mortars, 38th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
|

Korean War era veteran Corporal Tibor "Ted" Rubin, wears the Medal of Honor, Friday, Sept. 23, 2005 at
ceremonies at the White House in Washington. Rubin was honored for his actions under fire, and his bravery
while in captivity at a Chinese POW camp.
White House photo by Paul Morse
(Click picture for a larger view)
|
- Rubin, Tibor "Ted" - U.S. Army, Co. I, 8th Cav. Regt., 1st Cav. Div.
S
- Schoonover, Dan D., Boise, ID – US Army, Co. A, 13th Eng. Combat Bat., 7th Div.
- Schowalter, Edward R., Jr., Metairie, LA – US Army, Co. A, 31st Inf. Regt., 7th Div.
- Sebille, Louis J., Harbor Bch., MI – USAF, 67th Fighter-Bomber Sd, 18th F-B Gp, 5th AF
- Shea, Richard T., Jr., Portsmouth, VA – US Army, Co. A, 17th Inf. Regt., 7th Div.
- Shuck, William E. Jr., Ridgeley, WV – USMC, G-3-7
- Simanek, Robert E., Detroit, MI – USMC, F-2-5
- Sitman, William S., Bedford, PA – US Army, Co. M., 23rd Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Sitter, Carl L., Pueblo, CO – USMC, G-3-1
- Skinner, Sherrod E., Jr., East Lansing, MI – USMC, F-2-11
- Smith, David M., Livingston, KY – US Army, Co. E, 9th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Speicher, Clifton T., Gray, PA – US Army, Co. F, 223rd Inf. Regt., 40th Div.
- Stone, James L., Pine Bluff, AK – US Army, Co. E, 8th Cav. Regt., 1st Cav. Div.
- Story, Luther H., Americus, GA – US Army, Co. A, 9th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- Sudut, Jerome A., Wausau, WI – US Army, Co. B, 27th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
T
- Thompson, William, New York, NY – US Army, Co. M, 24th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
- Turner, Charles W., Boston, MA – US Army, 2nd Recon Co., 2nd Div.
U
V
- VanWinkle, Archie, Everett, WA – USMC, B-1-7
- Vittori, Joseph – Beverly, MA – USMC, F-2-1
W
- Walmsley, John S. Jr., Silver Spring, MD – USAF, 8th Bombardment Sqd., 3rd Bomb Gp.
- Watkins, Lewis G., Seneca, SC – USMC, I-3-7
- Watkins, Travis E., Gladewater, TX – US Army, Co. H, 9th Inf. Regt., 2nd Div.
- West, Ernest E., Wurtland, KY – US Army, Co. L, 14th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
- Wilson, Benjamin F., Vashon, WA – US Army, Co. I, 31st Inf. Regt., 7th Div.
- Wilson, Harold E., Birmingham, AL – USMC, G-3-1
- Wilson, Richard G., Cape Girardeau, MO – US Army, Co. I, Med Co., 187th Airborne
- Windrich, William G., East Chicago, IN – USMC, I-3-5
- Womack, Bryant H., Rutherfordton, NC – US Army, Med Co., 14th Inf. Regt., 25th Div.
X
Y
- Young, Robert H., Vallejo, CA – US Army, Co. E, 8th Cav. Regt., 1st Cav. Div.
Z
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Citations (Korean War):
Abrell, Charles G.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine
Division (Rein.). Place and date: Hangnyong, Korea, 10 June 1951. Entered service at: Terre Haute, Ind. Born:
12 August 1931, Terre Haute, Ind. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life
above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a fire team leader in Company E, in action against enemy
aggressor forces. While advancing with his platoon in an attack against well-concealed and heavily fortified
enemy hill positions, Cpl. Abrell voluntarily rushed forward through the assaulting squad which was pinned
down by a hail of intense and accurate automatic-weapons fire from a hostile bunker situated on commanding
ground. Although previously wounded by enemy hand grenade fragments, he proceeded to carry out a bold,
single-handed attack against the bunker, exhorting his comrades to follow him. Sustaining 2 additional wounds
as he stormed toward the emplacement, he resolutely pulled the pin from a grenade clutched in his hand and
hurled himself bodily into the bunker with the live missile still in his grasp. Fatally wounded in the
resulting explosion which killed the entire enemy gun crew within the stronghold, Cpl. Abrell, by his valiant
spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death, served to inspire all his comrades and contributed
directly to the success of his platoon in attaining its objective. His superb courage and heroic initiative
sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Adams, Stanley T.
Rank and organization: Master Sergeant (then Sfc.), U.S. Army, Company A, 19th Infantry Regiment. Place and
date: Near Sesim-ni, Korea, 4 February 1951. Entered service at: Olathe, Kans. Born: 9 May 1922, DeSoto, Kans.
G.O. No.: 66, 2 August 1951. Citation: M/Sgt. Adams, Company A, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy. At approximately 0100 hours,
M/Sgt. Adams' platoon, holding an outpost some 200 yards ahead of his company, came under a determined attack
by an estimated 250 enemy troops. Intense small-arms, machine gun, and mortar fire from 3 sides pressed the
platoon back against the main line of resistance. Observing approximately 150 hostile troops silhouetted
against the skyline advancing against his platoon, M/Sgt. Adams leaped to his feet, urged his men to fix
bayonets, and he, with 13 members of his platoon, charged this hostile force with indomitable courage. Within
50 yards of the enemy M/Sgt. Adams was knocked to the ground when pierced in the leg by an enemy bullet. He
jumped to his feet and, ignoring his wound, continued on to close with the enemy when he was knocked down 4
times from the concussion of grenades which had bounced off his body. Shouting orders he charged the enemy
positions and engaged them in hand-to-hand combat where man after man fell before his terrific onslaught with
bayonet and rifle butt. After nearly an hour of vicious action M/Sgt. Adams and his comrades routed the
fanatical foe, killing over 50 and forcing the remainder to withdraw. Upon receiving orders that his battalion
was moving back he provided cover fire while his men withdrew. M/Sgt. Adams' superb leadership, incredible
courage, and consummate devotion to duty so inspired his comrades that the enemy attack was completely
thwarted, saving his battalion from possible disaster. His sustained personal bravery and indomitable fighting
spirit against overwhelming odds reflect the utmost glory upon himself and uphold the finest traditions of the
infantry and the military service.
Barber, William E.
Rank and organization: Captain U.S. Marine Corps, commanding officer, Company F, 2d Battalion 7th Marines,
1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Chosin Reservoir area, Korea, 28 November to 2 December 1950.
Entered service at: West Liberty, Ky. Born: 30 November 1919, Dehart, Ky. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of Company F
in action against enemy aggressor forces. Assigned to defend a 3-mile mountain pass along the division's main
supply line and commanding the only route of approach in the march from Yudam-ni to Hagaru-ri, Capt. Barber
took position with his battle-weary troops and, before nightfall, had dug in and set up a defense along the
frozen, snow-covered hillside. When a force of estimated regimental strength savagely attacked during the
night, inflicting heavy casualties and finally surrounding his position following a bitterly fought 7-hour
conflict, Capt. Barber, after repulsing the enemy gave assurance that he could hold if supplied by airdrops
and requested permission to stand fast when orders were received by radio to fight his way back to a relieving
force after 2 reinforcing units had been driven back under fierce resistance in their attempts to reach the
isolated troops. Aware that leaving the position would sever contact with the 8,000 marines trapped at
Yudam-ni and jeopardize their chances of joining the 3,000 more awaiting their arrival in Hagaru-ri for the
continued drive to the sea, he chose to risk loss of his command rather than sacrifice more men if the enemy
seized control and forced a renewed battle to regain the position, or abandon his many wounded who were unable
to walk. Although severely wounded in the leg in the early morning of the 29th, Capt. Barber continued to
maintain personal control, often moving up and down the lines on a stretcher to direct the defense and
consistently encouraging and inspiring his men to supreme efforts despite the staggering opposition. Waging
desperate battle throughout 5 days and 6 nights of repeated onslaughts launched by the fanatical aggressors,
he and his heroic command accounted for approximately 1,000 enemy dead in this epic stand in bitter subzero
weather, and when the company was relieved only 82 of his original 220 men were able to walk away from the
position so valiantly defended against insuperable odds. His profound faith and courage, great personal valor,
and unwavering fortitude were decisive factors in the successful withdrawal of the division from the deathtrap
in the Chosin Reservoir sector and reflect the highest credit upon Capt. Barber, his intrepid officers and
men, and the U.S. Naval Service.
Barker, Charles H.
Rank and organization: Private First Class (then Pvt.), U.S. Army, Company K, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th
Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Sokkogae, Korea, 4 June 1953. Entered service at: Pickens County, S.C.
Born: 12 April 1935, Pickens County, S.C. G.O. No.: 37, 7 June 1955. Citation: Pfc. Barker, a member of
Company K, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and indomitable courage above and beyond the call of
duty in action against the enemy. While participating in a combat patrol engaged in screening an approach to
"Pork-Chop Outpost," Pfc. Barker and his companions surprised and engaged an enemy group digging emplacements
on the slope. Totally unprepared, the hostile troops sought cover. After ordering Pfc. Barker and a comrade to
lay down a base of fire, the patrol leader maneuvered the remainder of the platoon to a vantage point on
higher ground. Pfc. Barker moved to an open area firing his rifle and hurling grenades on the hostile
positions. As enemy action increased in volume and intensity, mortar bursts fell on friendly positions,
ammunition was in critical supply, and the platoon was ordered to withdraw into a perimeter defense
preparatory to moving back to the outpost. Voluntarily electing to cover the retrograde movement, he gallantly
maintained a defense and was last seen in close hand-to-hand combat with the enemy. Pfc. Barker's unflinching
courage, consummate devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice enabled the patrol to complete the mission and
effect an orderly withdrawal to friendly lines, reflecting lasting glory upon himself and upholding the
highest traditions of the military service.
Baugh, William B.
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Company G, 3d Battalion, 1st Marine, 1st
Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Along road from Koto-ri to Hagaru-ri, Korea, 29 November 1950.
Entered service at: Harrison, Ohio. Born: 7 July 1930, McKinney, Ky. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a member of an antitank
assault squad attached to Company G, during a nighttime enemy attack against a motorized column. Acting
instantly when a hostile hand grenade landed in his truck as he and his squad prepared to alight and assist in
the repulse of an enemy force delivering intense automatic-weapons and grenade fire from deeply entrenched and
well-concealed roadside positions, Pfc. Baugh quickly shouted a warning to the other men in the vehicle and,
unmindful of his personal safety, hurled himself upon the deadly missile, thereby saving his comrades from
serious injury or possible death. Sustaining severe wounds from which he died a short time afterward, Pfc.
Baugh, by his superb courage and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, upheld the highest traditions of the U.S.
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Benfold, Edward C.
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy, attached to a company in the 1st Marine
Division. Place and date: Korea, 5 September 1952. Entered service at: Philadelphia, Pa. Born: 15 January
1931, Staten Island, N.Y. Citation: For gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty while serving in operations against enemy aggressor forces. When his company was subjected to
heavy artillery and mortar barrages, followed by a determined assault during the hours of darkness by an enemy
force estimated at battalion strength, HC3c. Benfold resolutely moved from position to position in the face of
intense hostile fire, treating the wounded and lending words of encouragement. Leaving the protection of his
sheltered position to treat the wounded when the platoon area in which he was working was attacked from both
the front and rear, he moved forward to an exposed ridge line where he observed 2 marines in a large crater.
As he approached the 2 men to determine their condition, an enemy soldier threw 2 grenades into the crater
while 2 other enemy charged the position. Picking up a grenade in each hand, HC3c Benfold leaped out of the
crater and hurled himself against the on-rushing hostile soldiers, pushing the grenades against their chests
and killing both the attackers. Mortally wounded while carrying out this heroic act, HC3c. Benfold, by his
great personal valor and resolute spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death, was directly
responsible for saving the lives of his 2 comrades. His exceptional courage reflects the highest credit upon
himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for others.
Bennett, Emory L.
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry
Division. Place and date: Near Sobangsan, Korea, 24 June 1951. Entered service at: Cocoa, Fla. Born: 20
December 1929, New Smyrna Beach, Fla. G.O. No.: 11, 1 February 1952. Citation: Pfc. Bennett a member of
Company B, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and
beyond the call of duty in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations. At approximately 0200 hours, 2
enemy battalions swarmed up the ridge line in a ferocious banzai charge in an attempt to dislodge Pfc.
Bennett's company from its defensive positions. Meeting the challenge, the gallant defenders delivered
destructive retaliation, but the enemy pressed the assault with fanatical determination and the integrity of
the perimeter was imperiled. Fully aware of the odds against him, Pfc. Bennett unhesitatingly left his
foxhole, moved through withering fire, stood within full view of the enemy, and, employing his automatic
rifle, poured crippling fire into the ranks of the onrushing assailants, inflicting numerous casualties.
Although wounded, Pfc. Bennett gallantly maintained his l-man defense and the attack was momentarily halted.
During this lull in battle, the company regrouped for counterattack, but the numerically superior foe soon
infiltrated into the position. Upon orders to move back, Pfc. Bennett voluntarily remained to provide covering
fire for the withdrawing elements, and, defying the enemy, continued to sweep the charging foe with
devastating fire until mortally wounded. His willing self-sacrifice and intrepid actions saved the position
from being overrun and enabled the company to effect an orderly withdrawal. Pfc. Bennett's unflinching courage
and consummate devotion to duty reflect lasting glory on himself and the military service.
Bleak, David B.
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Medical Company 223d Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division.
Place and date: Vicinity of Minari-gol, Korea, 14 June 1952. Entered service at: Shelley, Idaho. Born: 27
February 1932, Idaho Falls, Idaho. G.O. No.: 83, 2 November 1953. Citation: Sgt. Bleak, a member of the
medical company, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and indomitable courage above and beyond the
call of duty in action against the enemy. As a medical aidman, he volunteered to accompany a reconnaissance
patrol committed to engage the enemy and capture a prisoner for interrogation. Forging up the rugged slope of
the key terrain, the group was subjected to intense automatic weapons and small arms fire and suffered several
casualties. After administering to the wounded, he continued to advance with the patrol. Nearing the military
crest of the hill, while attempting to cross the fire-swept area to attend the wounded, he came under hostile
fire from a small group of the enemy concealed in a trench. Entering the trench he closed with the enemy,
killed 2 with bare hands and a third with his trench knife. Moving from the emplacement, he saw a concussion
grenade fall in front of a companion and, quickly shifting his position, shielded the man from the impact of
the blast. Later, while ministering to the wounded, he was struck by a hostile bullet but, despite the wound,
he undertook to evacuate a wounded comrade. As he moved down the hill with his heavy burden, he was attacked
by 2 enemy soldiers with fixed bayonets. Closing with the aggressors, he grabbed them and smacked their heads
together, then carried his helpless comrade down the hill to safety. Sgt. Bleak's dauntless courage and
intrepid actions reflect utmost credit upon himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the
military service.
Brittin, Nelson V.
Rank and organization: Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company I, 19th Infantry Regiment. Place and date:
Vicinity of Yonggong-ni, Korea, 7 March 1951. Entered service at: Audubon, N.J. Birth: Audubon, N.J. G.O. No.:
12, 1 February 1952. Citation: Sfc. Brittin, a member of Company I, distinguished himself by conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. Volunteering to lead his squad up a
hill, with meager cover against murderous fire from the enemy, he ordered his squad to give him support and,
in the face of withering fire and bursting shells, he tossed a grenade at the nearest enemy position. On
returning to his squad, he was knocked down and wounded by an enemy grenade. Refusing medical attention, he
replenished his supply of grenades and returned, hurling grenades into hostile positions and shooting the
enemy as they fled. When his weapon jammed, he leaped without hesitation into a foxhole and killed the
occupants with his bayonet and the butt of his rifle. He continued to wipe out foxholes and, noting that his
squad had been pinned down, he rushed to the rear of a machine gun position, threw a grenade into the nest,
and ran around to its front, where he killed all 3 occupants with his rifle. Less than 100 yards up the hill,
his squad again came under vicious fire from another camouflaged, sandbagged, machine gun nest well-flanked by
supporting riflemen. Sfc. Brittin again charged this new position in an aggressive endeavor to silence this
remaining obstacle and ran direct into a burst of automatic fire which killed him instantly. In his sustained
and driving action, he had killed 20 enemy soldiers and destroyed 4 automatic weapons. The conspicuous
courage, consummate valor, and noble self-sacrifice displayed by Sfc. Brittin enabled his inspired company to
attain its objective and reflect the highest glory on himself and the heroic traditions of the military
service.
Brown, Melvin L.
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company D, 8th Engineer Combat Battalion. Place and
date: Near Kasan, Korea, 4 September 1950. Entered service at: Erie, Pa. Birth: Mahaffey, Pa. G.O. No.: 11, 16
February 1951. Citation. Pfc. Brown, Company D distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. While his platoon was securing Hill 755 (the
Walled City), the enemy, using heavy automatic weapons and small arms, counterattacked. Taking a position on a
50-foot-high wall he delivered heavy rifle fire on the enemy. His ammunition was soon expended and although
wounded, he remained at his post and threw his few grenades into the attackers causing many casualties. When
his supply of grenades was exhausted his comrades from nearby foxholes tossed others to him and he left his
position, braving a hail of fire, to retrieve and throw them at the enemy. The attackers continued to assault
his position and Pfc. Brown weaponless, drew his entrenching tool from his pack and calmly waited until they 1
by 1 peered over the wall, delivering each a crushing blow upon the head. Knocking 10 or 12 enemy from the
wall, his daring action so inspired his platoon that they repelled the attack and held their position. Pfc.
Brown's extraordinary heroism, gallantry, and intrepidity reflect the highest credit upon himself and was in
keeping with the honored traditions of the military service. Reportedly missing in action and officially
killed in action, September 5, 1950.
Burke, Lloyd L. "Scooter"
Rank and organization: First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company G, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division.
Place and date: Near Chong-dong, Korea, 28 October 1951. Entered service at: Stuttgart, Ark. Born: 29
September 1924, Tichnor, Ark. G.O. No.: 43. Citation: 1st Lt. Burke, distinguished himself by conspicuous
gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. Intense enemy
fire had pinned down leading elements of his company committed to secure commanding ground when 1st Lt. Burke
left the command post to rally and urge the men to follow him toward 3 bunkers impeding the advance. Dashing
to an exposed vantage point he threw several grenades at the bunkers, then, returning for an Ml rifle and
adapter, he made a lone assault, wiping out the position and killing the crew. Closing on the center bunker he
lobbed grenades through the opening and, with his pistol, killed 3 of its occupants attempting to surround
him. Ordering his men forward he charged the third emplacement, catching several grenades in midair and
hurling them back at the enemy. Inspired by his display of valor his men stormed forward, overran the hostile
position, but were again pinned down by increased fire. Securing a light machine gun and 3 boxes of
ammunition, 1st Lt. Burke dashed through the impact area to an open knoll, set up his gun and poured a
crippling fire into the ranks of the enemy, killing approximately 75. Although wounded, he ordered more
ammunition, reloading and destroying 2 mortar emplacements and a machine gun position with his accurate fire.
Cradling the weapon in his arms he then led his men forward, killing some 25 more of the retreating enemy and
securing the objective. 1st Lt. Burke's heroic action and daring exploits inspired his small force of 35
troops. His unflinching courage and outstanding leadership reflect the highest credit upon himself, the
infantry, and the U.S. Army.
Burris, Tony K.
Rank and organization: Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry
Division. Place and date: vicinity of Mundung-ni, Korea 8 and 9 October 1951. Entered service at: Blanchard,
Okla. Birth: Blanchard, Okla. G.O. No.: 84, 5 September 1952. Citation: Sfc. Burris, a member of Company L,
distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty. On 8
October, when his company encountered intense fire from an entrenched hostile force, Sfc. Burris charged
forward alone, throwing grenades into the position and destroying approximately 15 of the enemy. On the
following day, spearheading a renewed assault on enemy positions on the next ridge, he was wounded by machine
gun fire but continued the assault, reaching the crest of the ridge ahead of his unit and sustaining a second
wound. Calling for a 57mm. recoilless rifle team, he deliberately exposed himself to draw hostile fire and
reveal the enemy position. The enemy machine gun emplacement was destroyed. The company then moved forward and
prepared to assault other positions on the ridge line. Sfc. Burris, refusing evacuation and submitting only to
emergency treatment, joined the unit in its renewed attack but fire from hostile emplacement halted the
advance. Sfc. Burris rose to his feet, charged forward and destroyed the first emplacement with its heavy
machine gun and crew of 6 men. Moving out to the next emplacement, and throwing his last grenade which
destroyed this position, he fell mortally wounded by enemy fire. Inspired by his consummate gallantry, his
comrades renewed a spirited assault which overran enemy positions and secured Hill 605, a strategic position
in the battle for "Heartbreak Ridge," Sfc. Burris' indomitable fighting spirit, outstanding heroism, and
gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest glory upon himself, the infantry and the U.S. Army.
Cafferata, Hector A., Jr.
Rank and organization: Private, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Company F, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine
Division (Rein.). Place and date: Korea, 28 November 1950. Entered service at: Dover, N.J. Born: 4 November
1929, New York, N.Y. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and
beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company F, in action against enemy aggressor forces.
When all the other members of his fire team became casualties, creating a gap in the lines, during the initial
phase of a vicious attack launched by a fanatical enemy of regimental strength against his company's hill
position, Pvt. Cafferata waged a lone battle with grenades and rifle fire as the attack gained momentum and
the enemy threatened penetration through the gap and endangered the integrity of the entire defensive
perimeter. Making a target of himself under the devastating fire from automatic weapons, rifles, grenades, and
mortars, he maneuvered up and down the line and delivered accurate and effective fire against the onrushing
force, killing 15, wounding many more, and forcing the others to withdraw so that reinforcements could move up
and consolidate the position. Again fighting desperately against a renewed onslaught later that same morning
when a hostile grenade landed in a shallow entrenchment occupied by wounded marines, Pvt. Cafferata rushed
into the gully under heavy fire, seized the deadly missile in his right hand and hurled it free of his
comrades before it detonated, severing part of 1 finger and seriously wounding him in the right hand and arm.
Courageously ignoring the intense pain, he staunchly fought on until he was struck by a sniper's bullet and
forced to submit to evacuation for medical treatment Stouthearted and indomitable, Pvt. Cafferata, by his
fortitude, great personal valor, and dauntless perseverance in the face of almost certain death, saved the
lives of several of his fellow marines and contributed essentially to the success achieved by his company in
maintaining its defensive position against tremendous odds. His extraordinary heroism throughout was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Champagne, David B.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Company A 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine
Division (Rein.). Place and date. Korea, 28 May 1952. Entered service at: Wakefield R.I. Born: 11 November
1932, Waterville, Md. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and
beyond the call of duty while serving as a fire team leader of Company A, in action against enemy aggressor
forces. Advancing with his platoon in the initial assault of the company against a strongly fortified and
heavily defended hill position, Cpl. Champagne skillfully led his fire team through a veritable hail of
intense enemy machine gun, small-arms, and grenade fire, overrunning trenches and a series of almost
impregnable bunker positions before reaching the crest of the hill and placing his men in defensive positions.
Suffering a painful leg wound while assisting in repelling the ensuing hostile counterattack, which was
launched under cover of a murderous hail of mortar and artillery fire, he steadfastly refused evacuation and
fearlessly continued to control his fire team When the enemy counterattack increased in intensity, and a
hostile grenade landed in the midst of the fire team, Cpl. Champagne unhesitatingly seized the deadly missile
and hurled it in the direction of the approaching enemy. As the grenade left his hand, it exploded blowing off
his hand and throwing him out of the trench. Mortally wounded by enemy mortar fire while in this exposed
position, Cpl. Champagne, by his valiant leadership, fortitude, and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice in the
face of almost certain death, undoubtedly saved the lives of several of his fellow marines. His heroic actions
served to inspire all who observed him and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Charette, William R.
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy Medical Corpsman serving with a marine
rifle company. Place and date: Korea, 27 March 1953. Entered service at: Ludington, Michigan. Birth:
Ludington, Mich. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond
the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces during the early morning hours. Participating in a
fierce encounter with a cleverly concealed and well-entrenched enemy force occupying positions on a vital and
bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, HC3c. Charette repeatedly and
unhesitatingly moved about through a murderous barrage of hostile small-arms and mortar fire to render
assistance to his wounded comrades. When an enemy grenade landed within a few feet of a marine he was
attending, he immediately threw himself upon the stricken man and absorbed the entire concussion of the deadly
missile with his body. Although sustaining painful facial wounds, and undergoing shock from the intensity of
the blast which ripped the helmet and medical aid kit from his person, HC3c. Charette resourcefully improvised
emergency bandages by tearing off part of his clothing, and gallantly continued to administer medical aid to
the wounded in his own unit and to those in adjacent platoon areas as well. Observing a seriously wounded
comrade whose armored vest had been torn from his body by the blast from an exploding shell, he selflessly
removed his own battle vest and placed it upon the helpless man although fully aware of the added jeopardy to
himself. Moving to the side of another casualty who was suffering excruciating pain from a serious leg wound,
HC3c. Charette stood upright in the trench line and exposed himself to a deadly hail of enemy fire in order to
lend more effective aid to the victim and to alleviate his anguish while being removed to a position of
safety. By his indomitable courage and inspiring efforts in behalf of his wounded comrades, HC3c. Charette was
directly responsible for saving many lives. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself
and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Charlton, Cornelius H.
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date: Near Chipo-ri, Korea, 2 June 1951. Entered service at: Bronx, N.Y. Born: 24 July 1929, East
Gulf, W. Va. G.O. No.: 30, 19 March 1952. Citation: Sgt. Charlton, a member of Company C, distinguished
himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the
enemy. His platoon was attacking heavily defended hostile positions on commanding ground when the leader was
wounded and evacuated. Sgt. Charlton assumed command, rallied the men, and spearheaded the assault against the
hill. Personally eliminating 2 hostile positions and killing 6 of the enemy with his rifle fire and grenades,
he continued up the slope until the unit suffered heavy casualties and became pinned down. Regrouping the men
he led them forward only to be again hurled back by a shower of grenades. Despite a severe chest wound, Sgt.
Charlton refused medical attention and led a third daring charge which carried to the crest of the ridge.
Observing that the remaining emplacement which had retarded the advance was situated on the reverse slope, he
charged it alone, was again hit by a grenade but raked the position with a devastating fire which eliminated
it and routed the defenders. The wounds received during his daring exploits resulted in his death but his
indomitable courage, superb leadership, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself the
infantry, and the military service.
Christianson, Stanley R.
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st
Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Seoul, Korea, 29 September 1950. Entered service at: Mindoro, Wis.
Born: 24 January 1925, Mindoro, Wis. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his
life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company E, in action against enemy aggressor forces
at Hill 132, in the early morning hours. Manning 1 of the several listening posts covering approaches to the
platoon area when the enemy commenced the attack, Pfc. Christianson quickly sent another marine to alert the
rest of the platoon. Without orders, he remained in his position and, with full knowledge that he would have
slight chance of escape, fired relentlessly at oncoming hostile troops attacking furiously with rifles,
automatic weapons, and incendiary grenades. Accounting for 7 enemy dead in the immediate vicinity before his
position was overrun and he himself fatally struck down, Pfc. Christianson, by his superb courage, valiant
fighting spirit, and devotion to duty, was responsible for allowing the rest of the platoon time to man
positions, build up a stronger defense on that flank, and repel the attack with 41 of the enemy destroyed,
many more wounded, and 3 taken prisoner. His self-sacrificing actions in the face of overwhelming odds sustain
and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Pfc. Christianson gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Collier, Gilbert G.
Rank and organization: Sergeant (then Cpl.), U.S. Army, Company F, 223d Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry
Division. Place and date: Near Tutayon, Korea, 19-20 July 1953. Entered service at: Tichnor Ark. Born: 30
December 1930, Hunter, Ark. G.O. No.: 3, 12 January 1955. Citation: Sgt. Collier, a member of Company F,
distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and indomitable courage above and beyond the call of duty in
action against the enemy. Sgt. Collier was pointman and assistant leader of a combat patrol committed to make
contact with the enemy. As the patrol moved forward through the darkness, he and his commanding officer
slipped and fell from a steep, 60-foot cliff and were injured. Incapacitated by a badly sprained ankle which
prevented immediate movement, the officer ordered the patrol to return to the safety of friendly lines.
Although suffering from a painful back injury, Sgt. Collier elected to remain with his leader, and before
daylight they managed to crawl back up and over the mountainous terrain to the opposite valley where they
concealed themselves in the brush until nightfall, then edged toward their company positions. Shortly after
leaving the daylight retreat they were ambushed and, in the ensuing fire fight, Sgt. Collier killed 2 hostile
soldiers, received painful wounds, and was separated from his companion. Then, ammunition expended, he closed
in hand-to-hand combat with 4 attacking hostile infantrymen, killing, wounding, and routing the foe with his
bayonet. He was mortally wounded during this action, but made a valiant attempt to reach and assist his leader
in a desperate effort to save his comrade's life without regard for his own personal safety. Sgt. Collier's
unflinching courage, consummate devotion to duty, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect lasting glory upon
himself and uphold the noble traditions of the military service.
Collier, John W.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company C, 27th Infantry Regiment. Place and date: Near
Chindong-ni, Korea, 19 September 1950. Entered service at: Worthington, Ky. Born: 3 April 1929, Worthington,
Ky. G.O. No.: 86, 2 August 1951. Citation: Cpl. Collier, Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. While engaged in an assault on a
strategic ridge strongly defended by a fanatical enemy, the leading elements of his company encountered
intense automatic weapons and grenade fire. Cpl. Collier and 3 comrades volunteered and moved forward to
neutralize an enemy machine gun position which was hampering the company's advance, but they were twice
repulsed. On the third attempt, Cpl. Collier, despite heavy enemy fire and grenade barrages, moved to an
exposed position ahead of his comrades, assaulted and destroyed the machine gun nest, killing at least 4 enemy
soldiers. As he returned down the rocky, fire-swept hill and joined his squad, an enemy grenade landed in
their midst. Shouting a warning to his comrades, he, selflessly and unhesitatingly, threw himself upon the
grenade and smothered its explosion with his body. This intrepid action saved his comrades from death or
injury. Cpl. Collier's supreme, personal bravery, consummate gallantry, and noble self-sacrifice reflect
untold glory upon himself and uphold the honored traditions of the military service.
Commiskey, Henry A. Sr.
Rank and organization: First Lieutenant (then 2d Lt.), U.S. Marine Corps, Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st
Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Near Yongdungp'o, Korea, 20 September 1950. Entered
service at: Hattiesburg, Miss. Birth: 10 January 1927, Hattiesburg, Miss. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a platoon leader in
Company C, in action against enemy aggressor forces. Directed to attack hostile forces well dug in on Hill 85,
1st Lt. Commiskey, spearheaded the assault, charging up the steep slopes on the run. Coolly disregarding the
heavy enemy machine gun and small arms fire, he plunged on well forward of the rest of his platoon and was the
first man to reach the crest of the objective. Armed only with a pistol, he jumped into a hostile machine gun
emplacement occupied by 5 enemy troops and quickly disposed of 4 of the soldiers with his automatic pistol.
Grappling with the fifth, 1st Lt. Commiskey knocked him to the ground and held him until he could obtain a
weapon from another member of his platoon and killed the last of the enemy gun crew. Continuing his bold
assault, he moved to the next emplacement, killed 2 more of the enemy and then led his platoon toward the rear
nose of the hill to rout the remainder of the hostile troops and destroy them as they fled from their
positions. His valiant leadership and courageous fighting spirit served to inspire the men of his company to
heroic endeavor in seizing the objective and reflect the highest credit upon 1st Lt. Commiskey and the U.S.
Naval Service.
Coursen, Samuel S.
Rank and organization: First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company C 5th Cavalry Regiment. Place and date: Near
Kaesong, Korea, 12 October 1950. Entered service at: Madison, N.J. Born: 4 August 1926 Madison, N.J. G.O. No.:
57, 2 August 1951. Citation: 1st Lt. Coursen distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
above and beyond the call of duty in action. While Company C was attacking Hill 174 under heavy enemy
small-arms fire, his platoon received enemy fire from close range. The platoon returned the fire and continued
to advance. During this phase 1 his men moved into a well-camouflaged emplacement, which was thought to be
unoccupied, and was wounded by the enemy who were hidden within the emplacement. Seeing the soldier in
difficulty he rushed to the man's aid and, without regard for his personal safety, engaged the enemy in
hand-to-hand combat in an effort to protect his wounded comrade until he himself was killed. When his body was
recovered after the battle 7 enemy dead were found in the emplacement. As the result of 1st Lt. Coursen's
violent struggle several of the enemies' heads had been crushed with his rifle. His aggressive and intrepid
actions saved the life of the wounded man, eliminated the main position of the enemy roadblock, and greatly
inspired the men in his command. 1st Lt. Coursen's extraordinary heroism and intrepidity reflect the highest
credit on himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service.
Craig, Gordon M.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Reconnaissance Company, 1st Cavalry Division. Place and date:
Near Kasan, Korea 10 September 1950. Entered service at. Brockton, Mass. Born: 1 August 1929, Brockton, Mass.
G.O. No.: 23, 25 April 1951. Citation: Cpl. Craig, 16th Reconnaissance Company, distinguished himself by
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. During
the attack on a strategic enemy-held hill his company's advance was subjected to intense hostile grenade
mortar, and small-arms fire. Cpl. Craig and 4 comrades moved forward to eliminate an enemy machine gun nest
that was hampering the company's advance. At that instance an enemy machine gunner hurled a hand grenade at
the advancing men. Without hesitating or attempting to seek cover for himself, Cpl. Craig threw himself on the
grenade and smothered its burst with his body. His intrepid and selfless act, in which he unhesitantly gave
his life for his comrades, inspired them to attack with such ferocity that they annihilated the enemy machine
gun crew, enabling the company to continue its attack. Cpl. Craig's noble self-sacrifice reflects the highest
credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions of the military service.
Crump, Jerry K.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company L, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Place
and date: Near Chorwon, Korea, 6 and 7 September 1951. Entered service at: Forest City, N.C. Born: 18 February
1933, Charlotte, N.C. G.O. No.: 68, 11 July 1952. Citation. Cpl. Crump, a member of Company L, distinguished
himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against
the enemy. During the night a numerically superior hostile force launched an assault against his platoon on
Hill 284, overrunning friendly positions and swarming into the sector. Cpl. Crump repeatedly exposed himself
to deliver effective fire into the ranks of the assailants, inflicting numerous casualties. Observing 2 enemy
soldiers endeavoring to capture a friendly machine gun, he charged and killed both with his bayonet, regaining
control of the weapon. Returning to his position, now occupied by 4 of his wounded comrades, he continued his
accurate fire into enemy troops surrounding his emplacement. When a hostile soldier hurled a grenade into the
position, Cpl. Crump immediately flung himself over the missile, absorbing the blast with his body and saving
his comrades from death or serious injury. His aggressive actions had so inspired his comrades that a spirited
counterattack drove the enemy from the perimeter. Cpl. Crump's heroic devotion to duty, indomitable fighting
spirit, and willingness to sacrifice himself to save his comrades reflect the highest credit upon himself, the
infantry and the U.S. Army.
Davenport, Jack A.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Company G, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine
Division (Rein.). Place and date: Vicinity of Songnae-Dong, Korea, 21 September 1951. Entered service at:
Mission, Kans. Born: 7 September 1931, Kansas City, Mo. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at
the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a squad leader in Company G, in action
against enemy aggressor forces, early in the morning. While expertly directing the defense of his position
during a probing attack by hostile forces attempting to infiltrate the area, Cpl. Davenport, acting quickly
when an enemy grenade fell into the foxhole which he was occupying with another marine, skillfully located the
deadly projectile in the dark and, undeterred by the personal risk involved, heroically threw himself over the
live missile, thereby saving his companion from serious injury or possible death. His cool and resourceful
leadership were contributing factors in the successful repulse of the enemy attack and his superb courage and
admirable spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death enhance and sustain the highest
traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Cpl. Davenport gallantly gave his life for his country.
Davis, George Andrew, Jr.
Rank and organization: Major, U.S. Air Force, CO, 334th Fighter Squadron, 4th Fighter Group, 5th Air Force.
Place and date: Near Sinuiju-Yalu River area, Korea, 10 February 1952. Entered service at: Lubbock, Tex. Born:
1 December 1920, Dublin, Tex. Citation: Maj. Davis distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While leading a flight of 4 F-86
Saberjets on a combat aerial patrol mission near the Manchurian border, Maj. Davis' element leader ran out of
oxygen and was forced to retire from the flight with his wingman accompanying him. Maj. Davis and the
remaining F-86's continued the mission and sighted a formation of approximately 12 enemy MIG-15 aircraft
speeding southward toward an area where friendly fighter-bombers were conducting low level operations against
the Communist lines of communications. With selfless disregard for the numerical superiority of the enemy,
Maj. Davis positioned his 2 aircraft, then dove at the MIG formation. While speeding through the formation
from the rear he singled out a MIG-15 and destroyed it with a concentrated burst of fire. Although he was now
under continuous fire from the enemy fighters to his rear, Maj. Davis sustained his attack. He fired at
another MIG-15 which, bursting into smoke and flames, went into a vertical dive. Rather than maintain his
superior speed and evade the enemy fire being concentrated on him, he elected to reduce his speed and sought
out still a third MIG-15. During this latest attack his aircraft sustained a direct hit, went out of control,
then crashed into a mountain 30 miles south of the Yalu River. Maj. Davis' bold attack completely disrupted
the enemy formation, permitting the friendly fighter-bombers to successfully complete their interdiction
mission. Maj. Davis, by his indomitable fighting spirit, heroic aggressiveness, and superb courage in engaging
the enemy against formidable odds exemplified valor at its highest.
Davis, Raymond G.
Rank and organization: Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps commanding officer, 1st Battalion, 7th
Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Vicinity Hagaru-ri, Korea, 1 through 4 December 1950.
Entered service at: Atlanta, Ga. Born: 13 January 1915, Fitzgerald, Ga. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the 1st
Battalion, in action against enemy aggressor forces. Although keenly aware that the operation involved
breaking through a surrounding enemy and advancing 8 miles along primitive icy trails in the bitter cold with
every passage disputed by a savage and determined foe, Lt. Col. Davis boldly led his battalion into the attack
in a daring attempt to relieve a beleaguered rifle company and to seize, hold, and defend a vital mountain
pass controlling the only route available for 2 marine regiments in danger of being cut off by numerically
superior hostile forces during their re-deployment to the port of Hungnam. When the battalion immediately
encountered strong opposition from entrenched enemy forces commanding high ground in the path of the advance,
he promptly spearheaded his unit in a fierce attack up the steep, ice-covered slopes in the face of withering
fire and, personally leading the assault groups in a hand-to-hand encounter, drove the hostile troops from
their positions, rested his men, and reconnoitered the area under enemy fire to determine the best route for
continuing the mission. Always in the thick of the fighting Lt. Col. Davis led his battalion over 3 successive
ridges in the deep snow in continuous attacks against the enemy and, constantly inspiring and encouraging his
men throughout the night, brought his unit to a point within 1,500 yards of the surrounded rifle company by
daybreak. Although knocked to the ground when a shell fragment struck his helmet and 2 bullets pierced his
clothing, he arose and fought his way forward at the head of his men until he reached the isolated marines. On
the following morning, he bravely led his battalion in securing the vital mountain pass from a strongly
entrenched and numerically superior hostile force, carrying all his wounded with him, including 22 litter
cases and numerous ambulatory patients. Despite repeated savage and heavy assaults by the enemy, he stubbornly
held the vital terrain until the 2 regiments of the division had deployed through the pass and, on the morning
of 4 December, led his battalion into Hagaru-ri intact. By his superb leadership, outstanding courage, and
brilliant tactical ability, Lt. Col. Davis was directly instrumental in saving the beleaguered rifle company
from complete annihilation and enabled the 2 marine regiments to escape possible destruction. His valiant
devotion to duty and unyielding fighting spirit in the face of almost insurmountable odds enhance and sustain
the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Dean, William F.
Rank and organization: Major General, U.S. Army, commanding general, 24th Infantry Division. Place and
date: Taejon, Korea, 20 and 21 July 1950. Entered service at: California. Born: 1 August 1899, Carlyle, Ill.
G.O. No.: 7, 16 February 1951. Citation: Maj. Gen. Dean distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. In command of a unit suddenly
relieved from occupation duties in Japan and as yet untried in combat, faced with a ruthless and determined
enemy, highly trained and overwhelmingly superior in numbers, he felt it his duty to take action which to a
man of his military experience and knowledge was clearly apt to result in his death. He personally and alone
attacked an enemy tank while armed only with a hand grenade. He also directed the fire of his tanks from an
exposed position with neither cover nor concealment while under observed artillery and small-arm fire. When
the town of Taejon was finally overrun he refused to insure his own safety by leaving with the leading
elements but remained behind organizing his retreating forces, directing stragglers, and was last seen
assisting the wounded to a place of safety. These actions indicate that Maj. Gen. Dean felt it necessary to
sustain the courage and resolution of his troops by examples of excessive gallantry committed always at the
threatened portions of his frontlines. The magnificent response of his unit to this willing and cheerful
sacrifice, made with full knowledge of its certain cost, is history. The success of this phase of the campaign
is in large measure due to Maj. Gen. Dean's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion to his men, and
his complete disregard for personal safety.
Desiderio, Reginald B.
Rank and organization: Captain, U.S. Army, commanding officer, Company E, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th
Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Ipsok, Korea, 27 November 1950. Entered service at: Gilroy, Calif.
Born: 12 September 1918, Clairton, Pa. G.O. No.: 58, 2 August 1951. Citation: Capt. Desiderio distinguished
himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond the call of
duty. His company was given the mission of defending the command post of a task force against an enemy
breakthrough. After personal reconnaissance during darkness and under intense enemy fire, he placed his men in
defensive positions to repel an attack. Early in the action he was wounded, but refused evacuation and despite
enemy fire continued to move among his men checking their positions and making sure that each element was
prepared to receive the next attack. Again wounded, he continued to direct his men. By his inspiring
leadership he encouraged them to hold their position. In the subsequent fighting when the fanatical enemy
succeeded in penetrating the position, he personally charged them with carbine, rifle, and grenades,
inflicting many casualties until he himself was mortally wounded. His men, spurred on by his intrepid example,
repelled this final attack. Capt. Desiderio's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion to duty, and
his complete disregard for personal safety reflect the highest honor on him and are in keeping with the
esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.
Dewert, Richard David
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman, U.S. Navy. Hospital Corpsman attached to Marine infantry company,
1st Marine Division. Place and date: Korea, 5 April 1951. Entered service at: Taunton, Mass. Birth: Taunton,
Mass. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of
duty while serving as a HC, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When a fire team from the point platoon
of his company was pinned down by a deadly barrage of hostile automatic weapons fired and suffered many
casualties, HC Dewert rushed to the assistance of 1 of the more seriously wounded and, despite a painful leg
wound sustained while dragging the stricken marine to safety, steadfastly refused medical treatment for
himself and immediately dashed back through the fire swept area to carry a second wounded man out of the line
of fire. Undaunted by the mounting hail of devastating enemy fire, he bravely moved forward a third time and
received another serious wound in the shoulder after discovering that a wounded marine had already died. Still
persistent in his refusal to submit to first aid, he resolutely answered the call of a fourth stricken comrade
and, while rendering medical assistance, was himself mortally wounded by a burst of enemy fire. His courageous
initiative, great personal valor, and heroic spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds reflect
the highest credit upon HC Dewert and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
Dewey, Duane E.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Company E, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st
Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Near Panmunjon, Korea, 16 April 1952. Entered service at: Muskegon,
Mich. Born: 16 November 1931, Grand Rapids, Mich. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the
risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a gunner in a machine gun platoon of
Company E, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When an enemy grenade landed close to his position while
he and his assistant gunner were receiving medical attention for their wounds during a fierce night attack by
numerically superior hostile forces, Cpl. Dewey, although suffering intense pain, immediately pulled the
corpsman to the ground and, shouting a warning to the other marines around him. bravely smothered the deadly
missile with his body, personally absorbing the full force of the explosion to save his comrades from possible
injury or death. His indomitable courage, outstanding initiative, and valiant efforts in behalf of others in
the face of almost certain death reflect the highest credit upon Cpl. Dewey and enhance the finest traditions
of the U.S. Naval Service.
Dodd, Carl H.
Rank and organization: First Lieutenant (then 2d Lt.), U.S. Army, Company E, 5th Infantry Regiment, 24th
Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Subuk, Korea, 30 and 31 January 1951. Entered service at: Kenvir, Ky.
Born: 21 April 1925, Evarts, Ky. G.O. No.: 37, 4 June 1951. Citation: 1st Lt. Dodd, Company E, distinguished
himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the
enemy. First Lt. Dodd, given the responsibility of spearheading an attack to capture Hill 256, a key terrain
feature defended by a well-armed, crafty foe who had withstood several previous assaults, led his platoon
forward over hazardous terrain under hostile small-arms, mortar, and artillery fire from well-camouflaged
enemy emplacements which reached such intensity that his men faltered. With utter disregard for his safety,
1st Lt. Dodd moved among his men, reorganized and encouraged them, and then single-handedly charged the first
hostile machine gun nest, killing or wounding all its occupants. Inspired by his incredible courage, his
platoon responded magnificently and, fixing bayonets and throwing grenades, closed on the enemy and wiped out
every hostile position as it moved relentlessly onward to its initial objective. Securing the first series of
enemy positions, 1st Lt. Dodd again reorganized his platoon and led them across a narrow ridge and onto Hill
256. Firing his rifle and throwing grenades, he advanced at the head of his platoon despite the intense
concentrated hostile fire which was brought to bear on their narrow avenue of approach. When his platoon was
still 200 yards from the objective he moved ahead and with his last grenade destroyed an enemy mortar killing
the crew. Darkness then halted the advance but at daybreak 1st Lt. Dodd, again boldly advancing ahead of his
unit, led the platoon through a dense fog against the remaining hostile positions. With bayonet and grenades
he continued to set pace without regard for the danger to his life, until he and his troops had eliminated the
last of the defenders and had secured the final objective. First Lt. Dodd's superb leadership and
extraordinary heroism inspired his men to overcome this strong enemy defense reflecting the highest credit
upon himself and upholding the esteemed traditions of the military service.
Duke, Ray E.
Rank and organization: Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company C, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry
Division. Place and date: Near Mugok, Korea, 26 April 1951. Entered service at: Whitwell (Marion County),
Tenn. Born: 9 May 1923, Whitwell, Tenn. G.O. No.: 20, 19 March 1954. Citation: Sfc. Duke, a member of Company
C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in
action against the enemy. Upon learning that several of his men were isolated and heavily engaged in an area
yielded by his platoon when ordered to withdraw, he led a small force in a daring assault which recovered the
position and the beleaguered men. Another enemy attack in strength resulted in numerous casualties but Sfc.
Duke, although wounded by mortar fragments, calmly moved along his platoon line to coordinate fields of fire
and to urge his men to hold firm in the bitter encounter. Wounded a second time he received first aid and
returned to his position. When the enemy again attacked shortly after dawn, despite his wounds, Sfc. Duke
repeatedly braved withering fire to insure maximum defense of each position. Threatened with annihilation and
with mounting casualties, the platoon was again ordered to withdraw when Sfc. Duke was wounded a third time in
both legs and was unable to walk. Realizing that he was impeding the progress of 2 comrades who were carrying
him from the hill, he urged them to leave him and seek safety. He was last seen pouring devastating fire into
the ranks of the onrushing assailants. The consummate courage, superb leadership, and heroic actions of Sfc.
Duke, displayed during intensive action against overwhelming odds, reflect the highest credit upon himself,
the infantry, and the U.S. Army.
Edwards, Junior D.
Rank and organization: Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company E, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry
Division. Place and date: Near Changbong-ni, Korea, 2 January 1951. Entered service at: Indianola, Iowa. Born:
7 October 1926, Indianola, Iowa. G.O. No.: 13, 1 February 1952. Citation: Sfc. Edwards, Company E,
distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action
against the enemy. When his platoon, while assisting in the defense of a strategic hill, was forced out of its
position and came under vicious raking fire from an enemy machine gun set up on adjacent high ground, Sfc.
Edwards individually charged the hostile emplacement, throwing grenades as he advanced. The enemy withdrew but
returned to deliver devastating fire when he had expended his ammunition. Securing a fresh supply of grenades,
he again charged the emplacement, neutralized the weapon and killed the crew, but was forced back by hostile
small-arms fire. When the enemy emplaced another machine gun and resumed fire, Sfc. Edwards again renewed his
supply of grenades, rushed a third time through a vicious hail of fire, silenced this second gun and
annihilated its crew. In this third daring assault he was mortally wounded but his indomitable courage and
successful action enabled his platoon to regain and hold the vital strongpoint. Sfc. Edwards' consummate valor
and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the utmost glory upon himself and are in keeping with the esteemed
traditions of the infantry and military service.
Essebagger, John Jr.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company A, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Place
and date: Near Popsudong, Korea, 25 April 1951. Entered service at: Holland, Mich. Born: 29 October 1928,
Holland, Mich. G.O. No.: 61, 24 April 1952. Citation: Cpl. Essebagger, a member of Company A, distinguished
himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against
the enemy. Committed to effect a delaying action to cover the 3d Battalion's withdrawal through Company A,
Cpl. Essebagger, a member of 1 of 2 squads maintaining defensive positions in key terrain and defending the
company's right flank, had participated in repulsing numerous attacks. In a frenzied banzai charge the
numerically superior enemy seriously threatened the security of the planned route of withdrawal and isolation
of the small force. Badly shaken, the grossly outnumbered detachment started to fall back and Cpl. Essebagger,
realizing the impending danger, voluntarily remained to provide security for the withdrawal. Gallantly
maintaining a l-man stand, Cpl. Essebagger raked the menacing hordes with crippling fire and, with the foe
closing on the position, left the comparative safety of his shelter and advanced in the face of overwhelming
odds, firing his weapon and hurling grenades to disconcert the enemy and afford time for displacement of
friendly elements to more tenable positions. Scorning the withering fire and bursting shells, Cpl. Essebagger
continued to move forward, inflicting destruction upon the fanatical foe until he was mortally wounded. Cpl.
Essebagger's intrepid action and supreme sacrifice exacted a heavy toll in enemy dead and wounded, stemmed the
onslaught, and enabled the retiring squads to reach safety. His valorous conduct and devotion to duty
reflected lasting glory upon himself and was in keeping with the noblest traditions of the infantry and the
U.S. Army.
Faith, Don C., Jr.
Rank and organization: Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, commanding officer, 1st Battalion, 32d Infantry
Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Place and date: Vicinity Hagaru-ri, Northern Korea, 27 November to 1 December
1950. Entered service at: Washington, Ind. Born: 26 August 1918, Washington, Ind. G.O. No.: 59, 2 August 1951.
Citation: Lt. Col. Faith, commanding 1st Battalion, distinguished himself conspicuously by gallantry and
intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty in the area of the Chosin Reservoir. When the enemy
launched a fanatical attack against his battalion, Lt. Col. Faith unhesitatingly exposed himself to heavy
enemy fire as he moved about directing the action. When the enemy penetrated the positions, Lt. Col. Faith
personally led counterattacks to restore the position. During an attack by his battalion to effect a junction
with another U.S. unit, Lt. Col. Faith reconnoitered the route for, and personally directed, the first
elements of his command across the ice-covered reservoir and then directed the movement of his vehicles which
were loaded with wounded until all of his command had passed through the enemy fire. Having completed this he
crossed the reservoir himself. Assuming command of the force his unit had joined he was given the mission of
attacking to join friendly elements to the south. Lt. Col. Faith, although physically exhausted in the bitter
cold, organized and launched an attack which was soon stopped by enemy fire. He ran forward under enemy
small-arms and automatic weapons fire, got his men on their feet and personally led the fire attack as it
blasted its way through the enemy ring. As they came to a hairpin curve, enemy fire from a roadblock again
pinned the column down. Lt. Col. Faith organized a group of men and directed their attack on the enemy
positions on the right flank. He then placed himself at the head of another group of men and in the face of
direct enemy fire led an attack on the enemy roadblock, firing his pistol and throwing grenades. When he had
reached a position approximately 30 yards from the roadblock he was mortally wounded, but continued to direct
the attack until the roadblock was overrun. Throughout the 5 days of action Lt. Col. Faith gave no thought to
his safety and did not spare himself. His presence each time in the position of greatest danger was an
inspiration to his men. Also, the damage he personally inflicted firing from his position at the head of his
men was of material assistance on several occasions. Lt. Col. Faith's outstanding gallantry and noble
self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty reflect the highest honor on him and are in keeping with the
highest traditions of the U.S. Army. (This award supersedes the prior award of the Silver Star (First Oak Leaf
Cluster) as announced in G.O. No. 32, Headquarters X Corps, dated 23 February 1951, for gallantry in action on
27 November 1950.)
Garcia, Fernando Luis
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Company I, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st
Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Korea, 5 September 1952. Entered service at: San Juan, P.R. Born: 14
October 1929, Utuado, P.R. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty while serving as a member of Company I, in action against enemy aggressor forces.
While participating in the defense of a combat outpost located more than 1 mile forward of the main line of
resistance during a savage night attack by a fanatical enemy force employing grenades, mortars, and artillery,
Pfc. Garcia, although suffering painful wounds, moved through the intense hail of hostile fire to a supply
point to secure more hand grenades. Quick to act when a hostile grenade landed nearby, endangering the life of
another marine, as well as his own, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself and immediately threw his
body upon the deadly missile, receiving the full impact of the explosion. His great personal valor and cool
decision in the face of almost certain death sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
George, Charles
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company C, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry
Division. Place and date: Near Songnae-dong, Korea, 30 November 1952. Entered service at: Whittier, N.C. Born:
23 August 1932, Cherokee, N.C. G.O. NO.: 19, 18 March 1954. Citation: Pfc. George, a member of Company C,
distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in
action against the enemy on the night of 30 November 1952. He was a member of a raiding party committed to
engage the enemy and capture a prisoner for interrogation. Forging up the rugged slope of the key terrain
feature, the group was subjected to intense mortar and machine gun fire and suffered several casualties.
Throughout the advance, he fought valiantly and, upon reaching the crest of the hill, leaped into the trenches
and closed with the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. When friendly troops were ordered to move back upon
completion of the assignment, he and 2 comrades remained to cover the withdrawal. While in the process of
leaving the trenches a hostile soldier hurled a grenade into their midst. Pfc. George shouted a warning to 1
comrade, pushed the other soldier out of danger, and, with full knowledge of the consequences, unhesitatingly
threw himself upon the grenade, absorbing the full blast of the explosion. Although seriously wounded in this
display of valor, he refrained from any outcry which would divulge the position of his companions. The 2
soldiers evacuated him to the forward aid station and shortly thereafter he succumbed to his wound. Pfc.
George's indomitable courage, consummate devotion to duty, and willing self-sacrifice reflect the highest
credit upon himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.
Gilliland, Charles L.
Rank and organization: Corporal (then Pfc.), U.S. Army, Company I, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry
Division. Place and date: Near Tongmang-ni, Korea, 25 April 1951. Entered service at: Yellville (Marion
County), Ark. Born: 24 May 1933, Mountain Home, Ark. G.O. No.: 2, 11 January 1955. Citation: Cpl. Gilliland, a
member of Company I, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond
the call of duty in action against the enemy. A numerically superior hostile force launched a coordinated
assault against his company perimeter, the brunt of which was directed up a defile covered by his automatic
rifle. His assistant was killed by enemy fire but Cpl. Gilliland, facing the full force of the assault, poured
a steady fire into the foe which stemmed the onslaught. When 2 enemy soldiers escaped his raking fire and
infiltrated the sector, he leaped from his foxhole, overtook and killed them both with his pistol. Sustaining
a serious head wound in this daring exploit, he refused medical attention and returned to his emplacement to
continue his defense of the vital defile. His unit was ordered back to new defensive positions but Cpl.
Gilliland volunteered to remain to cover the withdrawal and hold the enemy at bay. His heroic actions and
indomitable devotion to duty prevented the enemy from completely overrunning his company positions. Cpl.
Gilliland's incredible valor and supreme sacrifice reflect lasting glory upon himself and are in keeping with
the honored traditions of the military service.
Gomez, Edward
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Reserve, Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st
Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Korea, Hill 749, 14 September 1951. Entered service at:
Omaha, Nebr. Born: 10 August 1932, Omaha, Nebr. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the
risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as an ammunition bearer in Company E, in
action against enemy aggressor forces. Bolding advancing with his squad in support of a group of riflemen
assaulting a series of strongly fortified and bitterly defended hostile positions on Hill 749, Pfc. Gomez
consistently exposed himself to the withering barrage to keep his machine gun supplied with ammunition during
the drive forward to seize the objective. As his squad deployed to meet an imminent counterattack, he
voluntarily moved down an abandoned trench to search for a new location for the gun and, when a hostile
grenade landed between himself and his weapon, shouted a warning to those around him as he grasped the
activated charge in his hand. Determined to save his comrades, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself
and, diving into the ditch with the deadly missile, absorbed the shattering violence of the explosion in his
body. By his stouthearted courage, incomparable valor, and decisive spirit of self-sacrifice, Pfc. Gomez
inspired the others to heroic efforts in subsequently repelling the outnumbering foe, and his valiant conduct
throughout sustained and enhanced the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his country.
Goodblood, Clair
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company D, 7th Infantry Regiment. Place and date: Near
Popsu-dong, Korea, 24 and 25 April 1951. Entered service at: Burnham, Maine. Born: 18 September 1929, Fort
Kent, Maine. G.O. No.: 14, 1 February 1952. Citation: Cpl. Goodblood, a member of Company D, distinguished
himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in
action against an armed enemy of the United Nations. Cpl. Goodblood, a machine gunner, was attached to Company
B in defensive positions on thickly wooded key terrain under attack by a ruthless foe. In bitter fighting
which ensued, the numerically superior enemy infiltrated the perimeter, rendering the friendly positions
untenable. Upon order to move back, Cpl. Goodblood voluntarily remained to cover the withdrawal and,
constantly vulnerable to heavy fire, inflicted withering destruction on the assaulting force. Seeing a grenade
lobbed at his position, he shoved his assistant to the ground and flinging himself upon the soldier attempted
to shield him. Despite his valorous act both men were wounded. Rejecting aid for himself, he ordered the
ammunition bearer to evacuate the injured man for medical treatment. He fearlessly maintained his l-man
defense, sweeping the onrushing assailants with fire until an enemy banzai charge carried the hill and
silenced his gun. When friendly elements regained the commanding ground, Cpl. Goodblood's body was found lying
beside his gun and approximately 100 hostile dead lay in the wake of his field of fire. Through his
unflinching courage and willing self-sacrifice the onslaught was retarded, enabling his unit to withdraw,
regroup, and resecure the strongpoint. Cpl. Goodblood's inspirational conduct and devotion to duty reflect
lasting glory on himself and are in keeping with the noble traditions of the military service.
Guillen, Ambrosio
Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, Company F, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine
Division (Rein.). Place and date: Near Songuch-on, Korea, 25 July 1953. Entered service at: El Paso, Tex.
Born: 7 December 1929, La Junta, Colo. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his
life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a platoon sergeant of Company F in action against
enemy aggressor forces. Participating in the defense of an outpost forward of the main line of resistance,
S/Sgt. Guillen maneuvered his platoon over unfamiliar terrain in the face of hostile fire and placed his men
in fighting positions. With his unit pinned down when the outpost was attacked under cover of darkness by an
estimated force of 2 enemy battalions supported by mortar and artillery fire, he deliberately exposed himself
to the heavy barrage and attacks to direct his men in defending their positions and personally supervise the
treatment and evacuation of the wounded. Inspired by his leadership, the platoon quickly rallied and engaged
the enemy in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Although critically wounded during the course of the battle, S/Sgt.
Guillen refused medical aid and continued to direct his men throughout the remainder of the engagement until
the enemy was defeated and thrown into disorderly retreat. Succumbing to his wounds within a few hours, S/Sgt.
Guillen, by his outstanding courage and indomitable fighting spirit, was directly responsible for the success
of his platoon in repelling a numerically superior enemy force. His personal valor reflects the highest credit
upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Hammond, Francis C.
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman, U.S. Navy, attached as a medical corpsman to 1st Marine Division.
Place and date: Korea, 26-27 March 1953. Entered service at: Alexandria, Va. Birth: Alexandria, Va. Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a HC
serving with the 1st Marine Division in action against enemy aggressor forces on the night of 26-27 March
1953. After reaching an intermediate objective during a counterattack against a heavily entrenched and
numerically superior hostile force occupying ground on a bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main
line of resistance. HC Hammond's platoon was subjected to a murderous barrage of hostile mortar and artillery
fire, followed by a vicious assault by onrushing enemy troops. Resolutely advancing through the veritable
curtain of fire to aid his stricken comrades, HC Hammond moved among the stalwart garrison of marines and,
although critically wounded himself, valiantly continued to administer aid to the other wounded throughout an
exhausting 4-hour period. When the unit was ordered to withdraw, he skillfully directed the evacuation of
casualties and remained in the fire-swept area to assist the corpsmen of the relieving unit until he was
struck by a round of enemy mortar fire and fell, mortally wounded. By his exceptional fortitude, inspiring
initiative and self-sacrificing efforts, HC Hammond undoubtedly saved the lives of many marines. His great
personal valor in the face of overwhelming odds enhances and sustains the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Hammond, Lester Jr.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company A, 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team. Place and
date: Near Kumwha, Korea, 14 August 1952. Entered service at: Quincy, Ill. Born: 25 March 1931, Wayland, Mo.
G.O. No.: 63, 17 August 1953. Citation: Cpl. Hammond, a radio operator with Company A, distinguished himself
by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the
enemy. Cpl. Hammond was a member of a 6 man reconnaissance patrol which had penetrated approximately 3,500
yards into enemy-held territory. Ambushed and partially surrounded by a large hostile force, the small group
opened fire, then quickly withdrew up a narrow ravine in search of protective cover. Despite a wound sustained
in the initial exchange of fire and imminent danger of being overrun by the numerically superior foe, he
refused to seek shelter and, remaining in an exposed place, called for artillery fire to support a defensive
action. Constantly vulnerable to enemy observation and action, he coordinated and directed crippling fire on
the assailants, inflicting heavy casualties and repulsing several attempts to overrun friendly positions.
Although wounded a second time, he remained steadfast and maintained his stand until mortally wounded. His
indomitable fighting spirit set an inspiring example of valor to his comrades and, through his actions, the
onslaught was stemmed, enabling a friendly platoon to reach the beleaguered patrol, evacuate the wounded, and
effect a safe withdrawal to friendly lines. Cpl. Hammond's unflinching courage and consummate devotion to duty
reflect lasting glory on himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.
Handrich, Melvin O.
Rank and organization: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 5th Infantry Regiment. Place and date: Near
Sobuk San Mountain, Korea, 25 and 26 August 1950. Entered service at: Manawa, Wis. Born: 26 January 1919,
Manawa, Wis. G.O. No.: 60, 2 August 1951. Citation: M/Sgt. Handrich, Company C, distinguished himself by
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. His company was engaged in
repulsing an estimated 150 enemy who were threatening to overrun its position. Near midnight on 25 August, a
hostile group over 100 strong attempted to infiltrate the company perimeter. M/Sgt. Handrich, despite the
heavy enemy fire, voluntarily left the comparative safety of the defensive area and moved to a forward
position where he could direct mortar and artillery fire upon the advancing enemy. He remained at this post
for 8 hours directing fire against the enemy who often approached to within 50 feet of his position. Again, on
the morning of 26 August, another strong hostile force made an attempt to overrun the company's position. With
complete disregard for his safety, M/Sgt. Handrich rose to his feet and from this exposed position fired his
rifle and directed mortar and artillery fire on the attackers. At the peak of this action he observed elements
of his company preparing to withdraw. He perilously made his way across fire-swept terrain to the defense area
where, by example and forceful leadership, he reorganized the men to continue the fight. During the action
M/Sgt. Handrich was severely wounded. Refusing to take cover or be evacuated, he returned to his forward
position and continued to direct the company's fire. Later a determined enemy attack overran M/Sgt. Handrich's
position and he was mortally wounded. When the position was retaken, over 70 enemy dead were counted in the
area he had so intrepidly defended. M/Sgt. Handrich's sustained personal bravery, consummate courage, and
gallant self-sacrifice reflect untold glory upon himself and the heroic traditions of the military service.
Hanson, Jack G
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company F, 31st Infantry Regiment. Place and date:
Near Pachi-dong, Korea, 7 June 1951. Entered service at: Galveston, Tex. Born: 18 September 1930, Escaptawpa,
Miss. G.O. No.: 15, 1 February 1952. Citation: Pfc. Hanson, a machine gunner with the 1st Platoon, Company F,
distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations. The company, in defensive positions on
two strategic hills separated by a wide saddle, was ruthlessly attacked at approximately 0300 hours, the brunt
of which centered on the approach to the divide within range of Pfc. Hanson's machine gun. In the initial
phase of the action, 4 riflemen were wounded and evacuated and the numerically superior enemy, advancing under
cover of darkness, infiltrated and posed an imminent threat to the security of the command post and weapons
platoon. Upon orders to move to key terrain above and to the right of Pfc. Hanson's position, he voluntarily
remained to provide protective fire for the withdrawal. Subsequent to the retiring elements fighting a
rearguard action to the new location, it was learned that Pfc. Hanson's assistant gunner and 3 riflemen had
been wounded and had crawled to safety, and that he was maintaining a lone-man defense. After the 1st Platoon
reorganized, counterattacked, and re-secured its original positions at approximately 0530 hours, Pfc. Hanson's
body was found lying in front of his emplacement, his machine gun ammunition expended, his empty pistol in his
right hand, and a machete with blood on the blade in his left hand, and approximately 22 enemy dead lay in the
wake of his action. Pfc. Hanson's consummate valor, inspirational conduct, and willing self-sacrifice enabled
the company to contain the enemy and regain the commanding ground, and reflect lasting glory on himself and
the noble traditions of the military service.
Hartell, Lee R.
Rank and organization: First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Battery A, 15th Field Artillery Battalion, 2d Infantry
Division. Place and date: Near Kobangsan-ni, Korea, 27 August 1951. Entered service at: Danbury, Conn. Birth:
Philadelphia, Pa. G.O. No.: 16, 1 February 1952. Citation: 1st. Lt. Hartell, a member of Battery A,
distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations. During the darkness of early morning, the
enemy launched a ruthless attack against friendly positions on a rugged mountainous ridge. 1st Lt. Hartell,
attached to Company B, 9th Infantry Regiment, as forward observer, quickly moved his radio to an exposed
vantage on the ridge line to adjust defensive fires. Realizing the tactical advantage of illuminating the area
of approach, he called for flares and then directed crippling fire into the onrushing assailants. At this
juncture a large force of hostile troops swarmed up the slope in banzai charge and came within 10 yards of 1st
Lt. Hartell's position. 1st Lt. Hartell sustained a severe hand wound in the ensuing encounter but grasped the
microphone with his other hand and maintained his magnificent stand until the front and left flank of the
company were protected by a close-in wall of withering fire, causing the fanatical foe to disperse and fall
back momentarily. After the numerically superior enemy overran an outpost and was closing on his position, 1st
Lt. Hartell, in a final radio call, urged the friendly elements to fire both batteries continuously. Although
mortally wounded, 1st Lt. Hartell's intrepid actions contributed significantly to stemming the onslaught and
enabled his company to maintain the strategic strongpoint. His consummate valor and unwavering devotion to
duty reflect lasting glory on himself and uphold the noble traditions of the military service.
Harvey, Raymond
Rank and organization: Captain, U.S. Army, Company C, 17th Infantry Regiment. Place and date: Vicinity of
Taemi-Dong, Korea, 9 March 1951. Entered service at: Pasadena, Calif. Born: 1 March 1920 Ford City, Pa. G.O.
No.: 67, 2 August 1951. Citation: Capt. Harvey Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. When his company was pinned down by a barrage of
automatic weapons fire from numerous well-entrenched emplacements, imperiling accomplishment of its mission,
Capt. Harvey braved a hail of fire and exploding grenades to advance to the first enemy machine gun nest,
killing its crew with grenades. Rushing to the edge of the next emplacement, he killed its crew with carbine
fire. He then moved the 1st Platoon forward until it was again halted by a curtain of automatic fire from well
fortified hostile positions. Disregarding the hail of fire, he personally charged and neutralized a third
emplacement. Miraculously escaping death from intense crossfire, Capt. Harvey continued to lead the assault.
Spotting an enemy pillbox well camouflaged by logs, he moved close enough to sweep the emplacement with
carbine fire and throw grenades through the openings, annihilating its 5 occupants. Though wounded he then
turned to order the company forward, and, suffering agonizing pain, he continued to direct the reduction of
the remaining hostile positions, refusing evacuation until assured that the mission would be accomplished.
Capt. Harvey's valorous and intrepid actions served as an inspiration to his company, reflecting the utmost
glory upon himself and upholding the heroic traditions of the military service.
Henry, Frederick F.
Rank and organization: First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company F, 38th Infantry Regiment. Place and date:
Vicinity of Am-Dong, Korea, 1 September 1950. Entered service at: Clinton, Okla. Birth: Vian, Okla. G.O. No.:
8, 16 February 1951. Citation: 1st Lt. Henry, Company F, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. His platoon was holding a strategic ridge near the
town when they were attacked by a superior enemy force, supported by heavy mortar and artillery fire. Seeing
his platoon disorganized by this fanatical assault, he left his foxhole and moving along the line ordered his
men to stay in place and keep firing. Encouraged by this heroic action the platoon reformed a defensive line
and rained devastating fire on the enemy, checking its advance. Enemy fire had knocked out all communications
and 1st Lt. Henry was unable to determine whether or not the main line of resistance was altered to this heavy
attack. On his own initiative, although severely wounded, he decided to hold his position as long as possible
and ordered the wounded evacuated and their weapons and ammunition brought to him. Establishing a l-man
defensive position, he ordered the platoon's withdrawal and despite his wound and with complete disregard for
himself remained behind to cover the movement. When last seen he was single-handedly firing all available
weapons so effectively that he caused an estimated 50 enemy casualties. His ammunition was soon expended and
his position overrun, but this intrepid action saved the platoon and halted the enemy's advance until the main
line of resistance was prepared to throw back the attack. 1st Lt. Henry's outstanding gallantry and noble
self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty reflect the highest honor on him and are in keeping with the
esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.
Hernandez, Rodolfo P.
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company G, 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team. Place and
date: Near Wontong-ni, Korea, 31 May 1951. Entered service at: Fowler, Calif. Born: 14 April 1931, Colton,
Calif. G.O. No.: 40, 21 April 1962. Citation: Cpl. Hernandez, a member of Company G, distinguished himself by
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. His
platoon, in defensive positions on Hill 420, came under ruthless attack by a numerically superior and
fanatical hostile force, accompanied by heavy artillery, mortar, and machine gun fire which inflicted numerous
casualties on the platoon. His comrades were forced to withdraw due to lack of ammunition but Cpl. Hernandez,
although wounded in an exchange of grenades, continued to deliver deadly fire into the ranks of the onrushing
assailants until a ruptured cartridge rendered his rifle inoperative. Immediately leaving his position, Cpl.
Hernandez rushed the enemy armed only with rifle and bayonet. Fearlessly engaging the foe, he killed 6 of the
enemy before falling unconscious from grenade, bayonet, and bullet wounds but his heroic action momentarily
halted the enemy advance and enabled his unit to counterattack and retake the lost ground. The indomitable
fighting spirit, outstanding courage, and tenacious devotion to duty clearly demonstrated by Cpl. Hernandez
reflect the highest credit upon himself, the infantry, and the U.S. Army.
Hudner, Thomas Jerome, Jr.
Rank and organization: Lieutenant (J.G.) U.S. Navy, pilot in Fighter Squadron 32, attached to U.S.S. Leyte.
Place and date: Chosin Reservoir area of Korea, 4 December 1950. Entered service at: Fall River, Mass. Born:
31 August 1924, Fall River, Mass. Citation. For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life
above and beyond the call of duty as a pilot in Fighter Squadron 32, while attempting to rescue a squadron
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