Ralph Puckett Jr. Medal of Honor hero dies Korean War 97

Ralph Puckett Jr., a Korean War hero awarded the Medal of Honor, dies at 97. President Biden honored his bravery.

Ralph Puckett Jr., a retired Army colonel who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Korean War, has passed away at the age of 97. Puckett, who led a company of outnumbered Army Rangers in battle, died peacefully at his home in Columbus, Georgia.

President Biden awarded Puckett the Medal of Honor in May 2021, recognizing his "conspicuous gallantry" during the war. The ceremony, attended by then South Korean President Moon Jae-in, highlighted the strong alliance between the United States and South Korea, forged through courage and sacrifice.

Puckett's heroism was displayed during a daylight attack on an enemy hill in Korea, where he intentionally drew enemy fire to allow his troops to locate and destroy enemy positions. Despite being badly outnumbered, Puckett's leadership and bravery led to the successful seizure of the hill.

Puckett's military career began when he volunteered for the 8th Army Ranger Company during the Korean War, eventually becoming its commander. He led his troops in securing a strategically important hill near Unsan, repelling multiple counterattacks from a Chinese battalion before being overrun.

Despite suffering serious wounds, Puckett refused to leave his men behind and continued to serve in the Army for another 20 years, retiring in 1971. His military honors included the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, three Legions of Merit, two Bronze Stars, and five Purple Hearts.

Puckett's legacy extended beyond his military service, as he later worked in leadership and teamwork development programs. He remained an active supporter of the 75th Ranger Regiment and emphasized the importance of holding oneself to high standards, a value he learned at West Point.

Ralph Puckett Jr.'s courage, leadership, and dedication to duty exemplify the best qualities of the American military, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of soldiers.

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