President Joe Biden is set to award the Medal of Honor, the highest military distinction in the United States, to seven U.S. Army veterans for their acts of valor during the Korean War and Vietnam War. The Medal of Honor recognizes individuals who exhibit extraordinary bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of danger, often at the risk of their own lives, according to the White House.
Five of the recipients were killed in action. Among the two surviving veterans is Richard Cavazos, a Korean War hero who became the first Hispanic four-star general in the U.S. Army. Cavazos is being honored posthumously for his actions as a first lieutenant during the Korean War, where he previously received the Distinguished Service Cross. During an intense battle in 1953, Cavazos led his troops to safety, despite the heavy enemy fire, before returning to the battlefield alone to evacuate wounded soldiers and search for missing personnel.
Cavazos’ son, Tommy, shared that his father’s deep love for his country, family, and soldiers drove his courageous actions. “There’s no greater love than selfless love,” Tommy Cavazos said. Gen. Cavazos is also remembered for his legacy as a battle-hardened warrior. In May 2023, Fort Hood in Texas was renamed Fort Cavazos in honor of his contributions to the Army.
Other recipients include Pfc. Charles R. Johnson, Cpl. Fred B. McGee, Pfc. Wataru Nakamura, and Pvt. Bruno R. Orig, who will be recognized for their bravery during the Korean War. Capt. Hugh R. Nelson Jr. and Pfc. Kenneth J. David will be honored for their heroism in the Vietnam War. David, the only living recipient, is being awarded for his actions during a 1970 battle. Despite being wounded, he selflessly drew enemy fire away from his team, allowing the wounded to be evacuated before he was rescued himself.
These seven veterans’ acts of courage embody the highest ideals of military service and sacrifice.
