TFH 1/12 Extra: Corporal Ronald E. Rosser, USA

Ronald Rosser first enlisted in the United States Army at age 17 in 1946. His three-year enlistment saw him returned to civilian life in 1949. After one of his brothers was killed in action during the early days of the Korean War, he reenlisted in hopes of avenging his dead sibling.

60 years ago today - and 10 years after today's other honoree, Lieutenant Alexander Nininger - then Corporal Rosser single-handedly changed the course of a battle. For his gallantry, he received our Nation's highest honor.


From Medal of Honor Citations for the Korean War:

ROSSER, RONALD E.

Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Heavy Mortar Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Place and date: Vicinity of Ponggilli, Korea, 12 January 1952. Entered service at: Crooksville, Ohio. Born: 24 October 1929, Columbus, Ohio. G.O. No.: 67, 7 July 1952. Citation: Cpl. Rosser, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty. While assaulting heavily fortified enemy hill positions, Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, was stopped by fierce automatic-weapons, small-arms, artillery, and mortar fire. Cpl. Rosser, a forward observer was with the lead platoon of Company L, when it came under fire from 2 directions. Cpl. Rosser turned his radio over to his assistant and, disregarding the enemy fire, charged the enemy positions armed with only carbine and a grenade. At the first bunker, he silenced its occupants with a burst from his weapon. Gaining the top of the hill, he killed 2 enemy soldiers, and then went down the trench, killing 5 more as he advanced. He then hurled his grenade into a bunker and shot 2 other soldiers as they emerged. Having exhausted his ammunition, he returned through the enemy fire to obtain more ammunition and grenades and charged the hill once more. Calling on others to follow him, he assaulted 2 more enemy bunkers. Although those who attempted to join him became casualties, Cpl. Rosser once again exhausted his ammunition obtained a new supply, and returning to the hilltop a third time hurled grenades into the enemy positions. During this heroic action Cpl. Rosser single-handedly killed at least 13 of the enemy. After exhausting his ammunition he accompanied the withdrawing platoon, and though himself wounded, made several trips across open terrain still under enemy fire to help remove other men injured more seriously than himself. This outstanding soldier's courageous and selfless devotion to duty is worthy of emulation by all men. He has contributed magnificently to the high traditions of the military service. 

After his Korean War service, Rosser stayed in the Army. He sought to return to combat in Vietnam, after his younger brother Gary was killed serving with the United States Marine Corps. His request was denied, and he retired with the rank of Sergeant First Class.

Ronald Rosser is still living.