Veterans, friends and family members will gather Saturday at the gravesite of Army Pvt. Bryant Womack of Mill Spring to honor his heroic service for the nation.
Womack, who died 58 years ago, is buried at Lebanon Methodist Church on Big Level Road in Sunny View.
It was during a night battle in the Korean War on March 12, 1952 that Womack sacrificed his life to save the lives of many others in a night combat patrol. Womack, the only medical aid man with the patrol, was 20 years old at the time.
For his heroism, Womack was given the Medal of Honor.
The Korean War Veteran North Carolina Chapter 265 will hold a special ceremony Saturday at the gravesite to honor his service.
The chapter has been raising funds for a new memorial near Charlotte that would honor Womack and other Korean War veterans from North Carolina.
The following is the Medal of Honor citation issued for Womack, and information about the Medal of Honor.
Womack, Bryant
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Medical Company, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Sokso-ri, Korea, 12 March 1952. Entered service at: Mill Spring, N.C. Birth: Mill Springs, N.C. G.O. No.: 5, 12 January 1953.
Citation:
Pfc. Womack distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. Pfc. Womack was the only medical aid man attached to a night combat patrol when sudden contact with a numerically superior enemy produced numerous casualties. Pfc. Womack went immediately to their aid, although this necessitated exposing himself to a devastating hail of enemy fire, during which he was seriously wounded. Refusing medical aid for himself, he continued moving among his comrades to administer aid. While he was aiding 1 man, he was again struck by enemy mortar fire, this time suffering the loss of his right arm. Although he knew the consequences should immediate aid not be administered, he still refused aid and insisted that all efforts be made for the benefit of others that were wounded. Although unable to perform the task himself, he remained on the scene and directed others in first aid techniques.
The last man to withdraw, he walked until he collapsed from loss of blood, and died a few minutes later while being carried by his comrades. The extraordinary heroism, outstanding courage, and unswerving devotion to his duties displayed by Pfc. Womack reflect the utmost distinction upon himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.