Congressional Medal of Honor Society

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Korean War - U.S. Army

Donald Raymond Moyer

Details
  • Rank: Sergeant First Class
  • Conflict/Era: Korean War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company E, 35th Infantry Regiment,
    25th Infantry Division
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: May 20, 1951
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: near Seoul, Korea
Citation
Sfc. Moyer, assistant platoon leader, Company E, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations. Sfc. Moyer's platoon was committed to attack and secure commanding terrain stubbornly defended by a numerically superior hostile force emplaced in well-fortified positions. Advancing up the rocky hill, the leading elements came under intense automatic-weapons, small-arms, and grenade fire, wounding the platoon leader and platoon sergeant. Sfc. Moyer, realizing the success of the mission was imperiled, rushed to the head of the faltering column, assumed command, and urged the men forward. Inspired by Sfc. Moyer's unflinching courage, the troops responded magnificently, but as they reached the final approaches to the rugged crest of the hill, enemy fire increased in volume and intensity and the fanatical foe showered the platoon with grenades. Undaunted, the valiant group forged ahead, and as they neared the top of the hill, the enemy hurled a grenade into their midst. Sfc. Moyer, fully aware of the odds against him, unhesitatingly threw himself on the grenade, absorbing the full blast of the explosion with his body. Although mortally wounded in this fearless display of valor, Sfc. Moyer's intrepid act saved several of his comrades from death or serious injury, and his inspirational leadership and consummate devotion to duty contributed significantly to the subsequent seizure of the enemy stronghold and reflect lasting glory on himself and the noble traditions of the military service.
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Keego Harbor, Oakland County, Michigan
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: January 16, 1952
    The Pentagon, presented by Sec. of Defense Robert Lovett to his Father
  • Born: April 15, 1930, Pontiac, Oakland County, MI, United States
  • Died: May 20, 1951, Korea
  • Buried: Perry Mount Park Cemetery (MH) (451), Pontiac, MI, United States
  • Location of Medal: Michigan Heroes Museum, Frankenmuth, MI
 

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