Richard G. Wilson

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Richard G. Wilson
August 19, 1931 - October 21, 1950
Medal of Honor recipient
Place of birth	Marion, Illinois
Place of death	Opari, Korea
Allegiance	United States Army
Rank	Private First Class
Unit	Co. 1, Medical Company, 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment

Richard G. Wilson was a soldier in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on October 21, 1950.

[edit] Medal of Honor Citation

Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Co. 1, Medical Company, 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment

Place and date: Opari, Korea, 21 October 1950

Entered service at: Cape Girardeau Mo. Born: 19 August 1931, Marion, Illinois

G.O. No.: 64, 2 August 1951

Citation: ^[1]

Pfc. Wilson distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. As medical aid man attached to Company I, he accompanied the unit during a reconnaissance in force through the hilly country near Opari. The main body of the company was passing through a narrow valley flanked on 3 sides by high hills when the enemy laid down a barrage of mortar, automatic-weapons and small-arms fire. The company suffered a large number of casualties from the intense hostile fire while fighting its way out of the ambush. Pfc. Wilson proceeded at once to move among the wounded and administered aid to them oblivious of the danger to himself, constantly exposing himself to hostile fire. The company commander ordered a withdrawal as the enemy threatened to encircle and isolate the company. As his unit withdrew Private Wilson assisted wounded men to safety and assured himself that none were left behind. After the company had pulled back he learned that a comrade previously thought dead had been seen to be moving and attempting to crawl to safety. Despite the protests of his comrades, unarmed and facing a merciless enemy, Pfc. Wilson returned to the dangerous position in search of his comrade. Two days later a patrol found him lying beside the man he returned to aid. He had been shot several times while trying to shield and administer aid to the wounded man. Pfc. Wilson's superb personal bravery, consummate courage and willing self-sacrifice for his comrades reflect untold glory upon himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of the military service.