Korean War - U.S. Army

William Henry Thompson

• Rank: Private First Class
• Conflict/Era: Korean War
• Unit/Command:
  Company M, 24th Infantry Regiment,
  25th Infantry Division
• Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
• Medal of Honor Action Date: August 6, 1950
• Medal of Honor Action Place: near Haman, Korea

Pfc. Thompson distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. While his platoon was reorganizing under cover of darkness, fanatical enemy forces in overwhelming strength launched a surprise attack on the unit. Pfc. Thompson set up his machine gun in the path of the onslaught and swept the enemy with withering fire, pinning them down momentarily, thus permitting the remainder of his platoon to withdraw to a more tenable position. Although hit repeatedly by grenade fragments and small-arms fire, he resisted all efforts of his comrades to induce him to withdraw, steadfastly remained at his machine gun and continued to deliver deadly, accurate fire until mortally wounded by an enemy grenade. Pfc. Thompson's dauntless courage and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit on himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of military service.