*BENNETT, EMORY L.
Rank and organization: Private First
Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Place and
date: Near Sobangsan, Korea, 24 June 1951. Entered service at: Cocoa, Fla. Born:
20 December 1929, New Smyrna Beach, Fla. G.O. No.: 11, 1 February 1952.
Citation:
Pfc. Bennett a member of Company B,
distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life
above and beyond the call of duty in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations.
At approximately 0200 hours, 2 enemy battalions swarmed up the ridge line in a ferocious
banzai charge in an attempt to dislodge Pfc. Bennett's company from its defensive
positions. Meeting the challenge, the gallant defenders delivered destructive retaliation,
but the enemy pressed the assault with fanatical determination and the integrity of the
perimeter was imperiled. Fully aware of the odds against him, Pfc. Bennett unhesitatingly
left his foxhole, moved through withering fire, stood within full view of the enemy, and,
employing his automatic rifle, poured crippling fire into the ranks of the onrushing
assailants, inflicting numerous casualties. Although wounded, Pfc. Bennett gallantly
maintained his l-man defense and the attack was momentarily halted. During this lull in
battle, the company regrouped for counterattack, but the numerically superior foe soon
infiltrated into the position. Upon orders to move back, Pfc. Bennett voluntarily remained
to provide covering fire for the withdrawing elements, and, defying the enemy, continued
to sweep the charging foe with devastating fire until mortally wounded. His willing
self-sacrifice and intrepid actions saved the position from being overrun and enabled the
company to effect an orderly withdrawal. Pfc. Bennett's unflinching courage and consummate
devotion to duty reflect lasting glory on himself and the military service.
