Korean War - U.S. Army

John Albert Pittman

• Rank: Sergeant
• Conflict/Era: Korean War
• Unit/Command:
  1st Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment,
  2d Infantry Division
• Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
• Medal of Honor Action Date: November 26, 1950
• Medal of Honor Action Place: near Kujang-dong, Korea

Sgt. Pittman distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. He volunteered to lead his squad in a counterattack to regain commanding terrain lost in an earlier engagement. Moving aggressively forward in the face of intense artillery, mortar, and small-arms fire, he was wounded by mortar fragments. Disregarding his wounds, he continued to lead and direct his men in a bold advance against the hostile strongpoint. During this daring action, an enemy grenade was thrown in the midst of his squad, endangering the lives of his comrades. Without hesitation, Sgt. Pittman threw himself on the grenade and absorbed its burst with his body. When a medical aidman reached him, his first request was to be informed as to how many of his men were hurt. This intrepid and selfless act saved several of his men from death or serious injury and was an inspiration to the entire command. Sgt. Pittman's extraordinary heroism reflects the highest credit upon himself and is in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the military service.