This collection contains the last 26 letters from Capt. Reginald B. Desiderio, USA to his wife before his death in combat during the Korean War. Capt. Desiderio was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on November 27, 1950.

Captain Reginald Benjamin "Reggie" Desiderio, United States Army (9/12/1919 - 11/27/1950) was born in Clairton, Pennsylvania to Angeline DeChicchio and James Vincent Desiderio. He married Patricia Jean "Pattie" Harp in 1937 and moved to Gilroy, California where they had two children, David A. and Timothy James Desiderio.Capt. Desiderio distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. His company was given the mission of defending the command post of a task force against an enemy breakthrough. After personal reconnaissance during darkness and under intense enemy fire, he placed his men in defensive positions to repel an attack. Early in the action he was wounded, but refused evacuation and despite enemy fire continued to move among his men checking their positions and making sure that each element was prepared to receive the next attack. Again wounded, he continued to direct his men. By his inspiring leadership he encouraged them to hold their position. In the subsequent fighting when the fanatical enemy succeeded in penetrating the position, he personally charged them with carbine, rifle, and grenades, inflicting many casualties until he himself was mortally wounded. His men, spurred on by his intrepid example, repelled this final attack. Capt. Desiderio's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion to duty, and his complete disregard for personal safety reflect the highest honor on him and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army. (Congressional Medal of Honor Society)

0.1 Linear Feet (2 folders)

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