Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William Eugene Gore, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division. First Lieutenant Gore distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Sukchon, Korea, on 22 October 1950. On that date, Lieutenant Gore was in command of troops defending the perimeter when the enemy attacked in strength of approximately one battalion. Due to poor visibility in the early morning light, the enemy was able to advance to within forty yards of the perimeter before being observed. Lieutenant Gore, being the first to recognize the enemy, ordered his men to open fire causing the enemy to immediately deploy to the left and right of his position. The enemy attempted a ruse at this time by calling out “ROK” giving the impression that they were friendly troops and causing most of the men to cease firing. Lieutenant Gore, recognizing the trick, ordered his men to continue firing. Exposing himself to intense and accurate small arms fire, he went from one position to another around the perimeter directing fire and designating targets. The enemy began to close in on the position, and Lieutenant Gore, realizing, the situation was becoming desperate, completely exposed himself to the enemy fire by dashing up a hill to the rear where a radio was located and called for artillery fire. Standing in an exposed position where two men had just been killed and two wounded, he personally directed the artillery fire, which caused the enemy to become disorganized and halt their encirclement of the defending positions. The fight continued for approximately six hours, but the enemy was unable to advance. During the battle Lieutenant Gore made at least ten inspections of the perimeter, distributing ammunition end boosting morale of his troops by his presence. His heroic actions and leadership were inspiring to his men, who rallied and held the perimeter inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. The extraordinary heroism displayed by First Lieutenant Gore on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.

Awards Received