Sgt. John A. Pittman, Medal of Honor

Inscription: "The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States of America. Sgt. Pittman earned this medal by his actions in Korea on 26 November 1950 as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army. His actions were 'above and beyond the call of duty.' The Medal was conferred upon him by President Harry Truman." Pittman's grave rests in Coila, Miss., in Carroll County. The marker was erected in Greenwood, Miss., in 2005 by American Legion Post 29. Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division Place and date: Near Kujangdong, Korea, 26 November 1950 Entered service at: Carrollton, Miss. Born: 15 October 1928, Carrollton G.O. No.: 39, 4 June 1951 Citation: Sgt. Pittman distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. He volunteered to lead his squad in a counterattack to regain commanding terrain lost in an earlier engagement. Moving aggressively forward in the face of intense artillery, mortar and small-arms fire, he was wounded by mortar fragments. Disregarding his wounds, he continued to lead and direct his men in a bold advance against the hostile standpoint. During this daring action, an enemy grenade was thrown in the midst of his squad, endangering the lives of his comrades. Without hesitation, Sgt. Pittman threw himself on the grenade and absorbed its burst with his body. When a medical aid man reached him, his first request was to be informed as to how many of his men were hurt. This intrepid and selfless act saved several of his men from death or serious injury and was an inspiration to the entire command. Sgt. Pittman’s extraordinary heroism reflects the highest credit upon himself and is in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the military service.