GENERAL ORDERS - NUMBER 431  5 October 1953

 

    AWARD OF THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL  - By direction of the President, under the provisions of Executive Order 9419, 4 February 1944 (Sec II, WD Bul 3, 1944), and pursuant to authority in AR 600-45, the Bronze Star Medal with Letter "V" device for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States is awarded to the following named officer and enlisted men:

Sergeant JOHN WALLACE, RA14402761, Infantry, Company "C", 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. On the night of 16 July 1953, in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea, a combat patrol from Company "C", advancing on Hill "326" near enemy territory, was subjected to heavy enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire. Sergeant WALLACE, a squad leader, led his men up the slope with complete disregard for his personal safety. As he was deploying his squad on the hill, approximately thirty enemy soldiers attacked from the reverse slope. Sergeant WALLACE maintained calm control over his men during the encounter and his rapid, accurate fire greatly contributed to the successful defense of the position. He constantly exposed himself to the barrage while courageously moving among his men, giving effective, decisive instructions. In the ensuing action, he was wounded by the enemy and rendered incapable of continuing in the fight. Sergeant WALLACE'S outstanding heroism and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal Service from South Carolina.

  Source: Record Group 338: General Orders 3rd Infantry Division, Boxes 129 to 131 - National Archives and Records Administration, College Park, Maryland.