Richard Gene Wilson

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Private First Class Richard Gene Wilson (ASN: 17252005), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Medical Company, 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, in action against enemy aggressor forces at Opari, Korea, on 21 October 1950. As medical aid man attached to Company I, Private First Class Wilson accompanied the unit during a reconnaissance in force through the hilly country near Opari. The main body of the company was passing through a narrow valley flanked on three sides by high hills when the enemy laid down a barrage of mortar, automatic-weapons and small-arms fire. The company suffered a large number of casualties from the intense hostile fire while fighting its way out of the ambush. Private First Class Wilson proceeded at once to move among the wounded and administered aid to them oblivious of the danger to himself, constantly exposing himself to hostile fire. The company commander ordered a withdrawal as the enemy threatened to encircle and isolate the company. As his unit withdrew Private Wilson assisted wounded men to safety and assured himself that none were left behind. After the company had pulled back he learned that a comrade previously thought dead had been seen to be moving and attempting to crawl to safety. Despite the protests of his comrades, unarmed and facing a merciless enemy, Private First Class Wilson returned to the dangerous position in search of his comrade. Two days later a patrol found him lying beside the man he returned to aid. He had been shot several times while trying to shield and administer aid to the wounded man. Private First Class Wilson's superb personal bravery, consummate courage and willing self-sacrifice for his comrades reflect untold glory upon himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of the military service.

General Orders: Department of the Army, General Orders No. 64 (August 2, 1951)

Action Date: 21-Oct-50

Service: Army

Rank: Private First Class

Company: Medical Company, Company I

Regiment: 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment

Division: 11th Airborne Division