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| PERSONALIA |
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| Name: |
McWhorter, William A. |
| Date of birth: | Unknown (Liberty, South Carolina, U.S.A.)
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| Date of death: |
December 5th, 1944 (Leyte, Philippine Islands)
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| Nationality: |
American |
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MEDAL OF HONOR - ARMY (MOH)
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Rank:
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Private First Class
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Unit:
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Company M, 126th. Infantry, 32rd. Infantry Division, U.S. Army
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Awarded on:
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September 27th, 1945
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Action:
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Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company M, 126th Infantry, 32d Infantry Division. Place and date: Leyte, Philippine Islands, 5 December 1944. Entered service at: Liberty, S.C. Birth: Liberty, S.C. G.O. No.: 82, 27 September 1945.
Citation:
He displayed gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in operations against the enemy. Pfc. McWhorter, a machine gunner, was emplaced in a defensive position with 1 assistant when the enemy launched a heavy attack. Manning the gun and opening fire, he killed several members of an advancing demolition squad, when 1 of the enemy succeeded in throwing a fused demolition charge in the entrenchment. Without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own safety, Pfc. McWhorter picked up the improvised grenade and deliberately held it close to his body, bending over and turning away from his companion. The charge exploded, killing him instantly, but leaving his assistant unharmed. Pfc. McWhorter's outstanding heroism and supreme sacrifice in shielding a comrade reflect the highest traditions of the military service.
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Details:
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Awarded posthumously
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