Congressional Medal of Honor Society

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Korean War - U.S. Army

Ronald Eugene Rosser

Details
  • Rank: Corporal (Highest Rank: Sergeant First Class (ret.))
  • Conflict/Era: Korean War
  • Unit/Command:
    Headquarters Company (Heavy Mortar), 38th Infantry Regiment,
    2d Infantry Division
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: January 12, 1952
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: near Ponggilli, Korea
Citation

Cpl. Rosser distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty. While assaulting heavily fortified enemy hill positions, Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, was stopped by fierce automatic-weapons, small-arms, artillery, and mortar fire. Cpl. Rosser, a forward observer was with the lead platoon of Company L, when it came under fire from two directions. Cpl. Rosser turned his radio over to his assistant and, disregarding the enemy fire, charged the enemy positions armed with only carbine and a grenade. At the first bunker, he silenced its occupants with a burst from his weapon. Gaining the top of the hill, he killed two enemy soldiers, and then went down the trench, killing five more as he advanced. He then hurled his grenade into a bunker and shot two other soldiers as they emerged. Having exhausted his ammunition, he returned through the enemy fire to obtain more ammunition and grenades and charged the enemy bunkers. Although those who attempted to join him became casualties, Cpl. Rosser once again exhausted his ammunition, obtained a new supply, and returning to the hilltop a third time hurled grenades into the enemy positions. During this heroic action Cpl. Rosser singlehandedly killed at least 13 of the enemy. After exhausting his ammunition he accompanied the withdrawing platoon, and though himself wounded, made several trips across open terrain still under enemy fire to help remove other men injured more seriously than himself. This outstanding soldier's courageous and selfless devotion to duty is worthy of emulation by all men. He has contributed magnificently to the high traditions of the military service.

USED WITH PERMISSION, COPYRIGHT NICK DELCALZO
USED WITH PERMISSION, COPYRIGHT NICK DELCALZO
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Crooksville, Perry County, Ohio
  • Awarded Posthumously: No
  • Presentation Date & Details: June 27, 1952

    The White House (Rose Garden), presented by Pres. Harry S. Truman

  • Born: October 24, 1929, Columbus, Franklin County, OH, United States
  • Died: August 26, 2020, Bumpus Mills, TN, USA
  • Buried: Iliff Cemetery, McLuney, OH, USA
 
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