The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
*WINDRICH, WILLIAM G.
Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant,
U.S. Marine Corps, Company I, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place
and date: Vicinity of Yudam-ni, Korea, 1 December 1950. Entered service at:
Hammond, Ind. Born: 14 May 1921, Chicago, Ill.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty as a platoon sergeant of Company I, in action against enemy aggressor forces
the night of 1 December 1950. Promptly organizing a squad of men when the enemy launched a
sudden, vicious counterattack against the forward elements of his company's position,
rendering it untenable, S/Sgt. Windrich, armed with a carbine, spearheaded the assault to
the top of the knoll immediately confronting the overwhelming forces and, under shattering
hostile automatic-weapons, mortar, and grenade fire, directed effective fire to hold back
the attackers and cover the withdrawal of our troops to commanding ground. With 7 of his
men struck down during the furious action and himself wounded in the head by a bursting
grenade, he made his way to his company's position and, organizing a small group of
volunteers, returned with them to evacuate the wounded and dying from the frozen hillside,
staunchly refusing medical attention himself. Immediately redeploying the remainder of his
troops, S/Sgt. Windrich placed them on the left flank of the defensive sector before the
enemy again attacked in force. Wounded in the leg during the bitter fight that followed,
he bravely fought on with his men, shouting words of encouragement and directing their
fire until the attack was repelled. Refusing evacuation although unable to stand, he still
continued to direct his platoon in setting up defensive positions until weakened by the
bitter cold, excessive loss of blood, and severe pain, he lapsed into unconsciousness and
died. His valiant leadership, fortitude, and courageous fighting spirit against tremendous
odds served to inspire others to heroic endeavor in holding the objective and reflect the
highest credit upon S/Sgt. Windrich and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his country.
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