Name: Jack Weinstein
Rank: Sergeant
War: Korean War
Date of Action: October 19, 1951
Unit: Company G, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division
Born: October 18, 1928 – Lamar, Missouri
Entered Service At: Not stated
Departed: April 20, 2006
Summary of Action
On the cold Korean hillside near Kumson, Sergeant Jack Weinstein and his platoon came under intense assault from a large enemy force. As the unit’s position began to buckle, Weinstein volunteered to remain behind and cover the withdrawal of his men — a task that meant almost certain death.
From his exposed position, Weinstein poured fire into the advancing enemy, killing six attackers and slowing their charge long enough for his platoon to reach safety. When his ammunition was finally gone, he scavenged grenades from the fallen — including enemy grenades — and continued the fight alone. Through the night, he held his ground against repeated assaults, his courage preventing the enemy from overrunning his company’s line. Only when friendly forces counterattacked the next morning did Weinstein finally yield his position — still alive, and still holding the hill.
For his unmatched bravery and refusal to abandon his post, Jack Weinstein was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2014, more than sixty years after that desperate stand. His actions embody the selfless valor that defines the American soldier.
Medal of Honor Citation
WEINSTEIN, JACK
Rank and Organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company G, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division.
Place and Date: October 19, 1951, Kumson, Korea.
Born: October 18, 1928, Lamar, Missouri.
Departed: April 20, 2006.
Citation: Sergeant Jack Weinstein distinguished himself for his exceptionally valorous actions on October 19, 1951, near Kumson, Korea, when his platoon came under enemy attack. Volunteering to stay behind and provide covering fire while his men withdrew, Weinstein killed six enemy combatants and, after exhausting his ammunition, used enemy grenades around him to hold off the advancing force. Alone and wounded, he maintained his position until friendly forces counterattacked and pushed the enemy back. His extraordinary courage and steadfast defense reflect the highest traditions of military service and bring great honor to himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
