Medal of Honor, John E. Kilmer, Korean War, August 13, 1952

Name: John E. Kilmer

War: Korean War
Date: August 13, 1952

Summary of Action

Hospital Corpsman John E. Kilmer, serving alongside Marines of the 1st Marine Division, was thrust into the fiercest of fighting during the Korean War. On the night of August 13, 1952, his company faced overwhelming enemy assault while defending a crucial hill position forward of the main line of resistance. Ignoring the storm of mortar, artillery, and sniper fire, Kilmer repeatedly rushed from one position to another, treating the wounded and evacuating them under constant danger. Even after being hit by mortar fragments himself, he crawled to the side of another fallen Marine and gave aid. As fresh barrages rained down, he threw his own body across his comrade, deliberately absorbing the deadly shrapnel that would have taken another life. Mortally wounded in the act, Kilmer’s sacrifice ensured that others survived and inspired all who witnessed his courage.

Medal of Honor Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces. With his company engaged in defending a vitally important hill position well forward of the main line of resistance during an assault by large concentrations of hostile troops, HC Kilmer repeatedly braved intense enemy mortar, artillery, and sniper fire to move from 1 position to another, administering aid to the wounded and expediting their evacuation. Painfully wounded himself when struck by mortar fragments while moving to the aid of a casualty, he persisted in his efforts and inched his way to the side of the stricken marine through a hail of enemy shells falling around him. Undaunted by the devastating hostile fire, he skillfully administered first aid to his comrade and, as another mounting barrage of enemy fire shattered the immediate area, unhesitatingly shielded the wounded man with his body. Mortally wounded by flying shrapnel while carrying out this heroic action, HC Kilmer, by his great personal valor and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice in saving the life of a comrade, served to inspire all who observed him. His unyielding devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for another.