Navy Federal Credit Union

William Isbell graduated from the United States Military Academy Class of 1931, and was a veteran of World War II before he was killed serving in the Korean War.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery)

    Regiment:

    7th Division Artillery

    Division:

    7th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 14, 1952

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 37 (April 29, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) William Harris Isbell, Jr. (ASN: 0-18474), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Headquarters Battery, 7th Division Artillery, 7th Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Isbell distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Kumhwa, Korea, on 14 October 1952. Observing that friendly elements were pinned down by withering fire during a bitterly contested engagement on key terrain, Colonel Isbell proceeded alone up the barren, rugged slope. When he reached the forward observer, he requested that artillery fire on the commanding ground be lifted. Fearlessly advancing approximately thirty yards to the first hostile position, he fired his pistol and lobbed grenades into the bunker. He then moved back to the crest of the hill and beckoned for the troops to join him. Inspired by his heroic challenge, the men rallied and moved forward, but as they approached the position, Colonel Isbell was mortally wounded by a mortar burst. Colonel Isbell’s unflinching courage and intrepid actions set a lasting example of valor to all who observed him, reflect the utmost credit on himself, and uphold the esteemed traditions of the military service.