U.S. Congressman Drew Ferguson (R-Ga.) this week honored Colonel Ralph Puckett, a veteran from Columbus, Georgia, who will receive the Medal of Honor for his service and valor on the battlefield during the Korean War.
Congressman Ferguson speaks on the House floor to recognize Colonel Ralph Puckett on May 12.
“Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable individual from my district, Colonel Ralph Puckett, a 94-year old veteran, who will soon receive the nation’s highest award, the Medal of Honor.
“Colonel Puckett is a [Georgia] native and graduate of West Point. Soon after graduating, he was deployed to fight in Korea in the Eighth Army Regiment. In November 1950, he heroically led his Ranger company on a freezing day at the Battle for Hill 205. His platoon was overcome by an onslaught of Chinese attackers and a barrage of artillery fire. Puckett sustained severe injuries during this attack.
“Although his injuries incapacitated him, Colonel Puckett selflessly ordered Private First Class Billy Walls and Private First Class Davis Pollock to leave him on the battlefield. He could see Chinese soldiers within yards attacking his Rangers, but his comrades returned to carry him to safety despite the danger.
“Colonel Puckett went on to serve honorably in Colombia, Germany, and Vietnam until his retirement in 1971. Though his active duty ended, he continues to serve as an honorary Colonel of the 75th Ranger Regiment, and still inspires young people today.
“Colonel Puckett was inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame and received a Distinguished Service Cross for his actions at Hill 205, in addition to two Silver Stars, five Purple Hearts, various awards from Vietnam and Colombia, and a Distinguished Graduate Award from West Point.
“His bravery is a testament to his strength and patriotism, and he is an inspiration to the people of the Third District of Georgia as well as our country.
“Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Colonel Puckett and extending sincere appreciation to him and to all our men and women in uniform. As a nation, we are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice.
“And I yield back.”
Watch Ferguson’s full remarks here.
Original source can be found here.
