John H. Mitchell

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John H. Mitchell (RA20212607), Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment (Infantry), 1st Cavalry Division. Master Sergeant Mitchell distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Taegu, Korea, on 12 September 1950. While engaged in an attack on the strategic enemy position on Hill 314, Master Sergeant Mitchell’s platoon began to falter under the deadly hail of enemy mortar, machine-gun and small-arms fire directed at them. With a display of extreme courage and selflessness, Sergeant Mitchell moved about in the intense enemy fire to assign positions and encourage and urge his men forward in the attack. His dauntless leadership under enemy fire provided an inspiring example to his men and stimulated them in the assault. Near the top of the hill, Sergeant Mitchell was seriously wounded in the chest by small-arms fire, but despite great pain and loss of blood, he continued to lead his platoon forward until the enemy, with heavy losses, was driven from the top of the hill. Not until the objective was completely secured could he be persuaded to seek medical aid. As Sergeant Mitchell started to leave the hilltop, he lost his life in an enemy mortar barrage, which suddenly struck the area.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army, Korea: General Orders No. 37 (January 22, 1951)