ARMY MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT REMEMBERED AT THE CAPITOL
Paying tribute to our war heroes is not enough to show appreciation for their bravery and sacrifices for the country. Recently, Ralph Puckett Jr., a retired Colonel and Army Medal of Honor recipient, was remembered at the Capitol Rotunda with his cremated remains. Puckett, who was 97 and lived in Columbus, Georgia, died last April 8. To lie or be honored at the U.S. Capitol is one of the highest privileges a person can get. Usually, this is for the most distinguished leaders, citizens, and war Veterans, just like receiving the US Army Medal of Honor. Only seven citizens and four police officers have been paid tribute in the Capitol.
Remembering One of the Army Medal of Honor Recipients
Puckett showed his bravery during the Korean War. He drew enemy fire and exposed himself so that his fellow Army Rangers could create a good attack. Because of him, they could distinguish and destroy the enemy positions during a multi-wave attack. Thus, he earned the Army Medal of Honor for his courageous actions. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also mentioned that the self-sacrifice and courage that Puckett earned will be his most incredible legacy.On May 21, 2021, President Joe Biden granted Puckett the US Army Medal of Honor. This has upgraded his Distinguished Service Crosses due to his heroism 70 years ago; it has already given him the "act of valor the full recognition they have always deserved."Even Moon Jae-in, the president of the Republic of Korea, joined the celebration. Jae-in is the first foreign leader to attend the Army Medal of Honor recipients ceremony.He even mentioned that Colonel Puckett was a true hero during the Korean War. He could complete his mission with great courage and leadership until the end. Puckett was defending Hill 205 and fighting many battles requiring equal valiance. Without their sacrifices, democracy and freedom will not be enjoyed today.
The Next Generations to Receive US Army Medal of Honor
With the inspiring story of Puckett, Speaker Mike Johnson voiced his hope for the next generation of service members and warfighters. He hoped they would learn from Puckett and aim for the same virtues of valor, honor, and courage. He also added that those heroes were forged by fire and built via great adversity. They are ordinary men who can do extraordinary things due to their drive and profound sense of self-sacrifice and faith. The values in the country are worth defending, and God would honor the priceless value of the service members' commitments. Those Soldiers who sacrificed during the Korean War did the right thing, even if there was a great consequence.
The Attack Encountered by the Medal Recipient
According to the citation read at the ceremony, Puckett got the Army Medal of Honor for his gallantry and bravery, even knowing the risk of the call of duty. He served as the 8th commander of the U.S. Army Ranger Company from November 25-26, 1950 in Korea.As Puckett's unit commenced an offensive attack, the Korean enemy directed mortar, small-arms fire, and machine guns against them. To advance, Puckett mounted a tank, exposing himself to enemy fire. He then leaped from the tank, shouted words of motivation to his men, and led the rangers in the attack.The enemy fired, threatening the planned attack, and was able to pin down one U.S. platoon. Puckett made a decision and ran across the open area three times to draw fire at the enemy. Thus, the ranges had time to locate and destroy the enemy's positions, and they could seize Hill 205. A counterattack from the enemies lasted for hours, and even though a grenade wounded Puckett, he refused evacuation. Instead, he continually directed artillery support, resulting in decimating enemy formations. With the last attack from the enemy, the Army Medal of Honor recipient had horrible wounds, affecting his mobility. Puckett then issued an order to retreat and leave him behind. However, two Rangers refused the order and retrieved him from the bottom of the hill. Ralph Puckett Jr. later returned to serve in the Vietnam War, where he showed honor and gallantry. In addition to the US Army Medal of Honor, he received two Silver Stars, two Bronze Star medals, five Purple Hearts, three Legion of Merit awards, and a second Distinguished Service Cross for his efforts in Vietnam.Read next:
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