On January 3, 2025, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is set to award the Medal of Honor to seven U.S. Army soldiers. This prestigious recognition will be given posthumously to six of these individuals for their acts of valor during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Private Bruno R. Orig is among those being honored posthumously for his bravery in Korea on February 15, 1951. He "observed a number of his comrades who had been wounded" and risked his life to assist them despite an ongoing enemy attack.
Similarly, Private First Class Wataru Nakamura will receive the medal posthumously for his actions on May 18, 1951, near P’ungch’on-ni, Korea. Nakamura singlehandedly attacked and destroyed enemy positions under heavy fire before being killed by an enemy grenade.
Corporal Fred B. McGee's gallantry on June 16, 1952, near Tang-Wan-Ni, Korea also earned him this honor posthumously. Despite intense enemy fire and being wounded himself, he continued to provide covering fire for his platoon until he was mortally wounded.
Private First Class Charles R. Johnson demonstrated extraordinary heroism on June 11-12, 1953, in Korea by saving numerous lives while under direct enemy assault before being killed in action.
Retired General Richard E. Cavazos is another recipient recognized posthumously for leading assaults against entrenched enemies in Sagimak, Korea on June 14-15, 1953. He later served over thirty years in the military before passing away in San Antonio at age 88.
Captain Hugh R. Nelson Jr.'s selfless actions on June 5, 1966, near Moc Hoa in Vietnam are also being recognized with a posthumous Medal of Honor. Nelson used his body as a shield to protect a fellow soldier during an attack that ultimately claimed his life.
The only living recipient from this group is Specialist Fourth Class Kenneth J. David for his valor on May 7, 1970, near Fire Support Base Maureen in Vietnam where he drew enemy fire away from medevac helicopters despite being wounded himself.
The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the armed forces who distinguish themselves through acts of gallantry and intrepidity at great personal risk above and beyond the call of duty during military operations or conflicts involving opposing forces.
