Ernest E. West

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Ernest E. West
September 2, 1931 -
Medal of Honor recipient
Place of birth	Russell, Kentucky
Place of death	Near Sataeri, Korea
Allegiance	United States Army
Rank	Private First Class
Unit	Company L, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division

Ernest E. West was a soldier in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on October 12, 1952.

[edit] Medal of Honor Citation

Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company L, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division

Place and date: Near Sataeri, Korea, 12 October 1952

Entered service at: Wurtland Ky. Born: 2 September 1931, Russell, Kentucky

G.O. No.: 7, 29 January i954

Citation: ^[1]

Pfc. West distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. He voluntarily accompanied a contingent to locate and destroy a reported enemy outpost. Nearing the objective, the patrol was ambushed and suffered numerous casualties. Observing his wounded leader lying in an exposed position, Pfc. West ordered the troops to withdraw, then braved intense fire to reach and assist him. While attempting evacuation, he was attacked by 3 hostile soldiers employing grenades and small-arms fire. Quickly shifting his body to shelter the officer, he killed the assailants with his rifle, then carried the helpless man to safety. He was critically wounded and lost an eye in this action. but courageously returned through withering fire and bursting shells to assist the wounded. While evacuating 2 comrades, he closed with and killed 3 more of the foe. Pfc. West's indomitable spirit, consummate valor, and intrepid actions inspired all who observed him, reflect the highest credit on himself, and uphold the honored traditions of the military service.