The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
*SHUCK, WILLIAM E., JR.
Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant,
U.S. Marine Corps, Company G, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place
and date: Korea, 3 July 1952. Entered service at: Cumberland, Md. Born.
16 August 1926, Cumberland, Md.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a
squad leader of Company G, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When his platoon was
subjected to a devastating barrage of enemy small-arms, grenade, artillery, and mortar
fire during an assault against strongly fortified hill positions well forward of the main
line of resistance, S/Sgt. Shuck, although painfully wounded, refused medical attention
and continued to lead his machinegun squad in the attack. Unhesitatingly assuming command
of a rifle squad when the leader became a casualty, he skillfully organized the 2 squads
into an attacking force and led 2 more daring assaults upon the hostile positions. Wounded
a second time, he steadfastly refused evacuation and remained in the foremost position
under heavy fire until assured that all dead and wounded were evacuated. Mortally wounded
by an enemy sniper bullet while voluntarily assisting in the removal of the last casualty,
S/Sgt. Shuck, by his fortitude and great personal valor in the face of overwhelming odds,
served to inspire all who observed him. His unyielding courage throughout reflects the
highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
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