American Valor Quarterly Issue 2 - Spring 2008 | Page 8

Raymond G. Davis Award
For distinguished service in the United States military during the Korean War
Raymond G. Davis was appointed a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps in 1938,
following his college graduation and ROTC training. Throughout his military career, Davis fought in
three wars and fourteen different campaigns. He rose to the rank of general, while earning 18 American
and seven foreign awards. Among these included the Navy Cross, earned for actions at Peleliu during
World War II, and the Distinguished Service Medal during Vietnam. However, it was in December
of 1950, near the Chosin Reservoir in Korea, that Davis would earn the acclaim that has made him
legendary. While carrying his wounded along, he led his battalion over icy ridges to rescue a stranded
rifle company. During this mission alone he was credited with saving more than 1,000 Marines from
certain death and 6,000 additional Marines from possible destruction by the enemy. For this, he was
awarded the Medal of Honor, and remains one of the great heroes in Marine Corps history.
Previous Recipient:
2006 - Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura
Medal of Honor

Captain Thomas J. Hudner, Jr.
By mid-October, 1950, the Korean War appeared to be over. Victory was in sight as American-led forces
had advanced through most of North Korea. However, on October 25, China entered the war, ending
hopes of a quick end to the hostilities.
The Battle of Chosin Reservoir is a familiar story: the Marines slogging it out against the Chinese in bitter,
sub-zero temperatures. During the fighting and the withdrawal of the Marines, U.S. forces enjoyed full
supremacy in the air. Fighter-bombers from the Navy, Air Force and Marines flew armed attacks all day
while evacuating the wounded and bringing in replacements. This valiant air support contributed greatly to
the success of ground efforts.
One of the men f