Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient

Master Sergeant Melvin O. Handrich of the U.S. Army was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his courageous action in battle near Sobuk San Mountain, Korea on August 25-26, 1950.

Handrich was born in Manawa, Wisconsin on January 26, 1919 and received the country's highest military award for his conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in battle.

Near midnight on August 25, 1950 the enemy attempted to infiltrate Handrich's company's perimeter. Despite heavy enemy fire, he left the safety of his position and moved forward to direct artillery fire against the enemy. At the peak of the action, he observed his company preparing to withdraw. He made his way across the fire-swept terrain to reorganize the men to continue the fight. Despite being severely wounded, Handrich refused to be evacuated and continued to direct artillery fire. His position was eventually overrun and he was mortally wounded.

Master Sergeant Melvin O. Handrich's bravery, courage and self-sacrifice reflect glory upon himself and the heroic tradition of the military service.

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