Medal of Honor: Ernest E. West

by Mike Piccione

Rank: Private First Class
Organization: U.S. Army
Company: Company L
Division: 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division
Born: 2 September 1931, Russell, Ky.
Departed: No
Entered Service At: Wurtland, Ky.
Date of Issue: 01/29/1954
Place / Date: Near Sataeri, Korea, 12 October 1952

Citation

Pfc. West distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. He voluntarily accompanied a contingent to locate and destroy a reported enemy outpost. Nearing the objective, the patrol was ambushed and suffered numerous casualties. Observing his wounded leader lying in an exposed position, Pfc. West ordered the troops to withdraw, then braved intense fire to reach and assist him. While attempting evacuation, he was attacked by 3 hostile soldiers employing grenades and small-arms fire. Quickly shifting his body to shelter the officer, he killed the assailants with his rifle, then carried the helpless man to safety. He was critically wounded and lost an eye in this action but courageously returned through withering fire and bursting shells to assist the wounded. While evacuating 2 comrades, he closed with and killed 3 more of the foe. Pfc. West's indomitable spirit, consummate valor, and intrepid actions inspired all who observed him, reflect the highest credit on himself, and uphold the honored traditions of the military service.