On February 15, 1951, in the midst of the brutal Korean War, Army Private Bruno R. Orig made a courageous return from a mission only to discover that his fellow soldiers were under attack during what is now known as the Battle of Chipyong-ni. Displaying remarkable bravery, he provided first aid to the wounded and helped transport his comrades to safety. Orig then took charge of a machine gun post, enabling a platoon to retreat without incurring casualties. Tragically, he lost his life that day, found dead beside the machine gun, having taken out several enemy fighters.
This remarkable act of heroism has not gone unnoticed. President Joe Biden is set to honor Orig, along with six other brave individuals, by posthumously awarding them the Medal of Honor in a ceremony at the White House. In a separate event, he will also present the Medal of Valor to eight first responders who showcased extraordinary courage by risking their lives to save others.
Among those being recognized is Pfc. Wataru Nakamura, who fought valiantly during the Korean War. He single-handedly took down an enemy machine gun nest and re-captured several bunkers before he was ultimately killed by an enemy grenade.
Another honoree is Army Corporal Fred B. McGee, who displayed outstanding bravery near Tang-Wan-Ni, Korea, on June 16, 1952. McGee took command of his squad, neutralizing enemy positions while also assisting in the rescue of wounded soldiers. He passed away in 2020.
Army Private Charles R. Johnson from Millbrook, New York, is remembered for his heroics on June 12, 1953, when he defended against Chinese forces, saving the lives of up to ten fellow soldiers before he was killed.
First Lieutenant Richard E. Cavazos made a name for himself by staying behind to evacuate five injured comrades after a series of raids in the Sagimak area. He served for over 30 years, rising to the rank of four-star general before his death in 2018, and Fort Hood was recently renamed in his honor.
The bravery of those who fought in Vietnam will also be commemorated, including Army Captain Hugh R. Nelson Jr., who lost his life rescuing specialists from a helicopter crash, and Army Pfc. Kenneth J. David, who drew enemy fire away from injured team members, allowing them to be evacuated.
In addition to honoring these courageous military personnel, Biden will also present the Medal of Valor to eight remarkable first responders recognized for their exceptional acts during emergencies. These include members of the Nashville Police Department who responded bravely to a shooter incident, as well as a firefighter who heroically rescued a mother and child from a blazing apartment.
This ceremony not only pays tribute to individuals who have shown extraordinary courage but also serves as a reminder of the unwavering spirit and dedication of those who protect and serve our nation.
