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 Sergeant Edward W. Minnick (ASN: RA-35005105), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment (Infantry), 1st Cavalry Division. Sergeant Minnick distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Waegwan, Korea, on 10 and 12 September 1950. After successfully attacking an enemy held hill, Sergeant Minnick, realizing that the enemy would soon counterattack, established his platoon defenses. When the contemplated attack finally came, his platoon, although vastly outnumbered, refused to give ground and for over two hours fought with the enemy, who at times approached to within twenty yards of friendly positions. Attack after attack was repulsed until the ammunition supply was exhausted, but even then Sergeant Minnick, setting an inspiring example for his men to follow, closed with the enemy with his bare fists. Although wounded six times during the ensuing action, bleeding profusely and weak from loss of blood, he refused to allow himself or his platoon to withdraw until he was ordered to do so by a senior officer. Even then, he elected to remain behind until he was certain that all the other wounded had been evacuated. Through his outstanding courage and inspiring leadership, he was able to keep his platoon completely organized and to withdraw with minimum of loss while at the same time inflicting extremely heavy casualties upon the enemy. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Sergeant Minnick on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.

Awards Received