| April 16, 2024
For Immediate Release Contact: Taylor Haulsee
WASHINGTON — Today, Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer released the following statement announcing that Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr., the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War, will lie in honor in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol on Monday, April 29th:
“The extraordinary valor of Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr. represents the best of the 1.7 million Americans who left home to fight for freedom in the Korean War. He demonstrated tireless sacrifice for our country and his fellow Rangers and is an exceptional model for servicemembers and civilians alike. To recognize Colonel Puckett’s remarkable heroism and service, and the contributions of all Korean War veterans, it is our privilege to permit his remains to lie in honor in the Rotunda of the Capitol.”
BACKGROUND
Colonel Puckett was a U.S. Army Ranger and veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars. For his contributions during his 22 years of service in the Army Rangers, he received two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars, five Purple Hearts, and the two highest awards for military valor: the Distinguished Service Cross and the Congressional Medal of Honor.
He also served as the Honorary Colonel for the 75th Ranger Regiment from 1996 to 2006, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Civilian Service Award, and received the Taegeuk Order of Military Merit, the Republic of Korea’s highest decoration for military bravery and valor.
Colonel Pucket will lie in honor following a Celebration of Life at the National Infantry Museum on Saturday, April 20th at 11:00am.
Read more about Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr. here.
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