Valor 24: Cpl. Joe R. Baldonado

(UNDISCLOSED LOCATION)

03.21.2014

Courtesy Photo

Office of the Chief of Public Affairs

He joined the U.S. Army as a light weapons infantryman (parachutist) during the Korean War. Baldonado is being recognized for his valorous actions while serving as a machine-gunner with Company B, 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment, Nov. 25, 1950, at Hill 171 in the vicinity of Kangdong, Korea. At approximately 4 a.m. the 2nd platoon of Company B was occupying positions on Hill 171 when the enemy tried to launch a strong attack to occupy the hill. By 6 a.m., the platoon had expended most of its ammunition in repelling the enemy attack, and the platoon leader decided to commit his third squad, with its supply of ammunition, in the defensive action. Since there was not time to dig in because of the proximity of the enemy, who had advanced to within 25 yards of the platoon positions, Baldonado, a machine-gunner of the third squad, placed his weapon in an exposed position and delivered a withering stream of fire on the advancing enemy, causing them to fall back in disorder. The enemy then concentrated all their fire on Baldonado’s gun, and attempted to knock it out by rushing the position in small groups and hurling grenades. Several times grenades exploded extremely close to Baldonado, but failed to interrupt his continuous firing. The hostile troops made repeated attempts to storm his position and were driven back each time with appalling casualties. The enemy finally withdrew at 7 a.m., after making a final assault on Baldonado’s position, during which a grenade landed near his gun, killing him instantly. Baldonado’s remains still have not been found. His acts of bravery were briefly described in a book “Disaster in Korea: The Chinese Confront MacArthur.” Charles Baldonado will accept the Medal of Honor award from President Barack Obama on March 18, 2014, on behalf of his brother.

• Date Taken: 03.21.2014
• Date Posted: 03.21.2014 12:40
• Photo ID: 1192349
• VIRIN: 140321-A-ZZ999-001
• Resolution: 540x750
• Size: 112.04 KB
• Location: (UNDISCLOSED LOCATION)