Ernest Edison West

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private Ernest Edison West (ASN: 52151286), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against enemy aggressor forces at Sataeri, Korea, on 12 October 1952. Private West voluntarily accompanied a contingent to locate and destroy a reported enemy outpost. Nearing the objective, the patrol was ambushed and suffered numerous casualties. Observing his wounded leader lying in an exposed position, Private First Class West ordered the troops to withdraw, then braved intense fire to reach and assist him. While attempting evacuation, he was attacked by three hostile soldiers employing grenades and small-arms fire. Quickly shifting his body to shelter the officer, he killed the assailants with his rifle, then carried the helpless man to safety. He was critically wounded and lost an eye in this action, but courageously returned through withering fire and bursting shells to assist the wounded. While evacuating two comrades, he closed with and killed three more of the foe. Private First Class West's indomitable spirit, consummate valor, and intrepid actions inspired all who observed him, reflect the highest credit on himself, and uphold the honored traditions of the military service.

General Orders: Department of the Army, General Orders No. 7 (January 29, 1954)

Action Date: 12-Oct-52

Service: Army

Rank: Private

Company: Company L

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 14th Infantry Regiment

Division: 25th Infantry Division