The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
*WILSON, RICHARD G.
Rank and organization: Private First
Class, U.S. Army, Co. 1, Medical Company, 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment. Place and
date: Opari, Korea, 21 October 1950. Entered service at: Cape Girardeau Mo. Born:
19 August 1931, Marion, Ill. G.O. No.: 64, 2 August 1951.
Citation:
Pfc. Wilson distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and
beyond the call of duty in action. As medical aid man attached to Company I, he
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 3 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. Pfc. 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, Pfc. Wilson returned to the dangerous
position in search of his comrade. Two days later a patrol found him Iying beside the man
he returned to aid. He had been shot several times while trying to shield and administer
aid to the wounded man. Pfc. 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.
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