GENERAL ORDERS - NUMBER 431  5 October 1953

 

    AWARD OF THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL  - By direction of the President, under the provisions of Executive Order 9419, 4 February 1944 (Sec II, WD Bul 3, 1944), and pursuant to authority in AR 600-45, the Bronze Star Medal with Letter "V" device for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States is awarded to the following named officer and enlisted men:

Private First Class DAVID McGHEE, US53121787, Infantry, Company "C", 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. On the night of 16 July 1953, in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea, a combat patrol from Company "C" left friendly lines to advance on Hill "326" near enemy lines. Upon reaching the crest of the hill the patrol immediately set up a defense perimeter. Soon, a group of approximately thirty enemy troops attacked from the reverse slope. The force quickly engaged the foe and an intense firefight ensued. Private McGHEE, the radioman with the patrol, maintained close, dependable radio contact with the rear elements of the company through the entire encounter. As the action continued, the patrol moved approximately thirty yards to a more advantageous position. When it was discovered that two members were still on the hill, Private McGHEE courageously volunteered to go back and find the missing men. Braving an intense enemy mortar and artillery barrage, he made his way back to the top of the hill and aided in the evacuation of the wounded comrades. Private McGHEE'S outstanding heroism and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal Service from Florida.

  Source: Record Group 338: General Orders 3rd Infantry Division, Boxes 129 to 131 - National Archives and Records Administration, College Park, Maryland.