WASHINGTON, D.C. – (May 19, 2021) – Below is a statement by the National Medal of Honor Museum on the White House’s announcement that President Biden is set to award the Medal of Honor to Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr., U.S. Army, Retired:
“On two bloody days in November 1950, Colonel Puckett’s mission was simple – do everything he could, give everything he could, to lead and defend his Rangers in the face of an unrelenting enemy on a Korean hill thousands of miles from home. He did so without regard for his own life or safety, repeatedly placing himself in mortal danger as he led his company, first under fire when they captured the unoccupied Hill 205, and then in defense of the hill when faced with six attacks by Chinese forces in which he was grievously wounded. Through it all, then-First Lieutenant Puckett’s selflessness and heroism were an inspiration to his fellow Rangers, who refused his order to leave him behind and evacuate the area.
“Colonel Puckett is the living embodiment of the values represented by the Medal of Honor – courage and sacrifice, patriotism and citizenship, integrity and commitment – and later this week, the nation will welcome him as our country’s newest Medal of Honor recipient. With Colonel Puckett added to the ranks of our nation’s bravest heroes, we look forward to continuing our mission of preserving and telling the stories of his unparalleled bravery, along with those of his fellow recipients, for generations to come.”
