Reginald B. Desiderio

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Reginald B. Desiderio
September 12, 1918 - November 27, 1950
Reginald Desiderio
Medal of Honor recipient Reginald Desiderio
Place of birth Clairton, Pennsylvania
Place of death Near Ipsok, Korea
Allegiance United States Army
Years of service -1950
Rank Captain
Unit Commanding Officer, Company E, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division

Reginald B. Desiderio was a soldier in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on November 27, 1950.

[edit] Medal of Honor Citation

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: [1]

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.

[edit] See also

[edit] Notes

  1.  U.S. Army Center for Military History
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