Medal of Honor: Miguel A. Vera, Korean War, September 21, 1952
Pinned down under relentless fire at “Old Baldy,” Private Miguel A. Vera refused to fall back with his comrades. Choosing instead to stay behind and cover their withdrawal, he gave his life so that others might escape.
September 23, 2025
Name: Miguel A. Vera
Rank: Private, U.S. Army
War: Korean War
Date of Action: September 21, 1952
Unit: Company F, 2nd Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division
Place: Chorwon, Korea (“Old Baldy”)
Born: May 3, 1932, Puerto Rico
Summary of Action
On September 21, 1952, Private Miguel A. Vera’s unit was ordered to retake the right sector of Hill 266—better known as “Old Baldy”—a fiercely contested outpost near Chorwon, Korea. The battle quickly turned desperate. Under intense enemy fire at close range, Vera’s company was unable to hold its position and was forced to withdraw.
As his fellow soldiers fell back, Vera faced a choice: retreat to safety or remain behind. Without hesitation, he chose the latter. He stayed in position to lay down covering fire, ensuring that his comrades could escape the enemy’s assault. In doing so, he knowingly placed himself in mortal danger.
Vera was killed in the action, his sacrifice allowing others to live. Though his bravery went unrecognized for decades, his valor was eventually honored with the Medal of Honor, awarded posthumously in 2014.
Private Miguel A. Vera’s decision to give his life for his fellow soldiers embodies the highest ideals of duty, loyalty, and selfless service.
Official Medal of Honor Citation
Vera is being recognized for his heroic actions at Chorwon, Korea, Sept. 21, 1952. While Vera’s unit attempted to retake the right sector of “Old Baldy,” they came under heavy fire at close range and were forced back. Vera selflessly chose to stay behind and cover the troop’s withdrawal, and lost his life during this action.
