Congressional Medal of Honor Society

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Korean War - U.S. Marine Corps

William Gordon Windrich

Details
  • Rank: Staff Sergeant
  • Conflict/Era: Korean War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company I, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines,
    1st Marine Division (Rein)
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: December 1, 1950
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: vinicity of Yudam-ni, Korea
Citation
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a platoon sergeant of Company I, in action against enemy aggressor forces the night of 1 December 1950. Promptly organizing a squad of men when the enemy launched a sudden, vicious counterattack against the forward elements of his company's position, rendering it untenable, S/Sgt. Windrich, armed with a carbine, spearheaded the assault to the top of the knoll immediately confronting the overwhelming forces and, under shattering hostile automatic-weapons, mortar, and grenade fire, directed effective fire to hold back the attackers and cover the withdrawal of our troops to commanding ground. With seven of his men struck down during the furious action and himself wounded in the head by a bursting grenade, he made his way to his company's position and, organizing a small group of volunteers, returned with them to evacuate the wounded and dying from the frozen hillside, staunchly refusing medical attention himself. Immediately redeploying the remainder of his troops, S/Sgt. Windrich placed them on the left flank of the defensive sector before the enemy again attacked in force. Wounded in the leg during the bitter fight that followed, he bravely fought on with his men, shouting words of encouragement and directing their fire until the attack was repelled. Refusing evacuation although unable to stand, he still continued to direct his platoon in setting up defensive positions until weakened by the bitter cold, excessive loss of blood, and severe pain, he lapsed into unconsciousness and died. His valiant leadership, fortitude, and courageous fighting spirit against tremendous odds served to inspire others to heroic endeavor in holding the objective and reflect the highest credit upon S/Sgt. Windrich and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Medal of Honor Recipient William G. Windrich
Medal of Honor Recipient William G. Windrich
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Hammond, Lake County, Indiana
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: February 8, 1952
    The Pentagon, presented by Under Sec. of the Navy Francis P. Whitehair to his Widow
  • Born: May 14, 1921, Chicago, Cook County, IL, United States
  • Died: December 2, 1950, vinicity of Yudam-ni, Korea
  • Buried: Arlington National Cemetery (MH) (31-4856), Arlington, VA, United States
 

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