COOL DUDES I ADMIRE: 1st lt. Ralph puckett

november 25th, 1950.

1st Lt. Ralph puckett is leading a company of 51 united states army rangers against a wave of chinese forces as they attempt to retake hill 205 in korea. Fighting the enemy in freezing temperatures and in the middle of the night, puckett exposed himself to enemy fire numerous times. he called in danger close firing missions and killed the enemy at point blank range— he had been wounded 3 separate times by shrapnel.

hearing the horrific sounds of war— mortars, grenades, and automatic fire, puckett ordered his rangers to hold their positions through the night until he gave the order to withdraw— or face complete destruction from the enemy.

wounded so horribly by shrapnel, puckett ordered his men to abandon him. two privates disobeyed and dragged him back down the hill. puckeTt was ultimately evacuated and he received his second distinguished service cross. this was on top of his silver star, numerous purple hearts, and various of medals of valor.

70 years later, puckett’s service cross was upgraded— the 94 year old puckett was presented with the medal of honor for his actions on that cold november night in korea. when puckett first heard he would be receiving the medal of honor, his reaction was exactly what you’d anticipate to come from the greatest generation.

"Why all the fuss? Can't they just mail it to me?"

1st lt. ralph pucket received the MOH from president joe biden on may 21st, 2021.