Rank
and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, Company F, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine
Division (Rein.). Place and date: Near Songuch-on,
Korea, 25 July 1953. Entered service at: El Paso,
Tex. Born: 7 December 1929, La Junta, Colo.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk
of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as
a platoon sergeant of Company F in action against enemy
aggressor forces. Participating in the defense of an outpost
forward of the main line of resistance, S/Sgt. Guillen
maneuvered his platoon over unfamiliar terrain in the face of
hostile fire and placed his men in fighting positions. With
his unit pinned down when the outpost was attacked under cover
of darkness by an estimated force of 2 enemy battalions
supported by mortar and artillery fire, he deliberately
exposed himself to the heavy barrage and attacks to direct his
men in defending their positions and personally supervise the
treatment and evacuation of the wounded. Inspired by his
leadership, the platoon quickly rallied and engaged the enemy
in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Although critically wounded
during the course of the battle, S/Sgt. Guillen refused
medical aid and continued to direct his men throughout the
remainder of the engagement until the enemy was defeated and
thrown into disorderly retreat. Succumbing to his wounds
within a few hours, S/Sgt. Guillen, by his outstanding courage
and indomitable fighting spirit, was directly responsible for
the success of his platoon in repelling a numerically superior
enemy force. His personal valor reflects the highest credit
upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S.
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
The
President of the United States