William C Wallace

Captain William C. Wallace, Infantry, United States Army, Commanding Officer, Company B, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, displayed extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Kunu-ri, Korea, on 25 November 1950. Company B was given the mission of attacking Hill 219 which was occupied by a well entrenched, numerically superior enemy force. To reach the objective it was necessary to take three knolls immediately in front of the enemy’s position. Fighting with grim determination under the gallant leadership of Captain Wallace, the lead platoon took the first two knolls but were pinned down as they approached the third. Fully exposing himself to the deadly fire, Captain Wallace threw grenades into the enemy positions, enabling the remainder of his company to execute a flanking movement and seize the third knoll. Although painfully wounded in the face during this action, he again exposed himself to enemy fire, secured tank support and personally directed fire on the enemy strong points, inflicting heavy casualties and enabling his company to take the objective. The extraordinary heroism and inspiring leadership displayed by Captain Wallace reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

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