Medal of Honor: William H. Thomas - World War II - April 22, 1945
On a narrow ridge in the Philippines, a blast tore away both of his legs. He refused evacuation, stayed in the fight, and helped carry the attack to victory.
April 30, 2026
Name: William H. Thomas
Rank: Private First Class
Branch: U.S. Army
War: World War II
Unit: 149th Infantry Regiment, 38th Infantry Division
Date of Action: April 22, 1945
Location: Zambales Mountains, Luzon, Philippine Islands
Summary of Action
On 22 April 1945, Private First Class William H. Thomas distinguished himself during combat in the Zambales Mountains of Luzon.
Thomas was a member of the leading squad of Company B as it attacked along a narrow wooded ridge.
Beyond the ridge, enemy forces were strongly entrenched in camouflaged positions.
From those emplacements they poured heavy fire onto the advancing Americans and hurled explosive charges down on the riflemen.
During the assault, one of those charges struck Thomas directly.
The blast severed both of his legs below the knees.
Despite catastrophic wounds, Thomas refused medical aid and evacuation.
Remaining in position, he continued firing his automatic rifle into the enemy defenses.
Only when an enemy bullet disabled his weapon did his fire stop.
Still refusing assistance, Thomas seized his last two grenades and hurled them at the enemy.
His final attack killed three enemy soldiers.
He later died from the terrible wounds he had suffered.
Thomas’s determined fire prevented the repulse of his platoon and helped ensure the capture of the hostile position.
His unmatched courage and devotion to duty inspired every man around him and reflected the highest traditions of the United States Army.
Medal of Honor Citation
THOMAS, WILLIAM H.
