Alfred Leonard Wilson

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Technician Fifth Grade Alfred Leonard Wilson, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty on 8 November 1944, while serving with Medical Company, 328th Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action at Bezange la Petite, France. Technician Fifth Grade Wilson volunteered to assist as an aid man in a company other than his own, which was suffering casualties from constant artillery fire. He administered to the wounded and returned to his own company when a shellburst injured a number of its men. While treating his comrades he was seriously wounded, but refused to be evacuated by litter bearers sent to relieve him. In spite of great pain and loss of blood, he continued to administer first aid until he was too weak to stand. Crawling from one patient to another, he continued his work until excessive loss of blood prevented him from moving. He then verbally directed unskilled enlisted men in continuing the first aid for the wounded. Still refusing assistance himself, he remained to instruct others in dressing the wounds of his comrades until he was unable to speak above a whisper and finally lapsed into unconsciousness. The effects of his injury later caused his death. By steadfastly remaining at the scene without regard for his own safety, Corporal Wilson through distinguished devotion to duty and personal sacrifice helped to save the lives of at least ten wounded men.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 47, June 18, 1945

Action Date: 8-Nov-44

Service: Army

Rank: Technician Fifth Grade

Company: Medical Company

Regiment: 328th Infantry Regiment

Division: 26th Infantry Division