Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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Korean War - U.S. Marine Corps

William Edward Shuck Jr.

Details
  • Rank: Staff Sergeant (Highest Rank: Master Sergeant)
  • Conflict/Era: Korean War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company G, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines,
    1st Marine Division (Rein)
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: July 3, 1952
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Korea
Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a squad leader of Company G, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When his platoon was subjected to a devastating barrage of enemy small-arms, grenade, artillery, and mortar fire during an assault against strongly fortified hill positions well forward of the main line of resistance, S/Sgt. Shuck, although painfully wounded, refused medical attention and continued to lead his machine-gun squad in the attack. Unhesitatingly assuming command of a rifle squad when the leader became a casualty, he skillfully organized the two squads into an attacking force and led two more daring assaults upon the hostile positions. Wounded a second time, he steadfastly refused evacuation and remained in the foremost position under heavy fire until assured that all dead and wounded were evacuated. Mortally wounded by an enemy sniper bullet while voluntarily assisting in the removal of the last casualty, S/Sgt. Shuck, by his fortitude and great personal valor in the face of overwhelming odds, served to inspire all who observed him. His unyielding courage throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Medal of Honor Recipient William E. Shuck Jr.
Medal of Honor Recipient William E. Shuck Jr.
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Cumberland, Allegany County, Maryland
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: September 9, 1953

    Marine Corps Barracks, Washington, D.C., presented by Vice Pres. Richard M. Nixon to his Widow

  • Born: August 16, 1926, Cumberland, Allegany County, MD, United States
  • Died: July 3, 1952, Korea
  • Buried: St. Peters & Paul Catholic Cemetery (MH), Cumberland, MD, United States
  • Location of Medal: Soldier & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum, Pittsburgh, PA
 

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