Emory Lawrence Bennett

Emory Lawrence Bennett. . Born 20 December 1929 at New Smyrna, Florida. Moved to Brevard County March 15, 1936. A 1948 graduate of Cocoa High School. Enlisted in the U.S. Army July 25, 1950. Killed in action June 24, 1951. His grave in Pinecrest Cemetery is properly marked. Emory was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry Truman December 3, 1951. , The White House , Washington , The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress March 3, 1863 has awarded in the name of the Congress the Medal of Honor, posthumously, to , Private First Class Emory L. Bennett, USA , for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy:. , Private Bennett, a member of Company B, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations near Sobangsan, Korea, on June 24, 1951. At approximately 0200 hours, two enemy battalions swarmed up the ridge line in a ferocious banzai charge in an attempt to dislodge Private Bennett’s company from its defensive positions. Meeting the challenge, the gallant defenders delivered destructive retaliation, but, the enemy pressed the assault with fanatical determination and the integrity of the perimeter was imperiled. Fully aware of the odds against him, Private Bennett unhesitatingly left his foxhole, moved through withering fire, stood within full view of the enemy, and, employing his automatic rifle, poured crippling fire into the ranks of the onrushing assailants inflicting numerous casualties. Although wounded, Private Bennett gallantly maintained his one-man defense, and the attack was momentarily halted. During this lull in battle the company regrouped for counterattack, but, the numerically superior foe soon infiltrated into the position. Upon orders to move back, Private Bennett voluntarily remained to provide covering fire for the withdrawing elements, and defying the enemy, continued to sweep the charging foe with devastating fire until mortally wounded. His willing self-sacrifice and intrepid actions saved the position from being overrun and enabled the company to effect an orderly withdrawal. Private Bennett’s unflinching courage and consummate devotion to duty reflect lasting glory on himself and the military service., Freedom is Not Free, This memorial is dedicated to all the citizens of the , United States who have answered to call of duty and , served honorably in the time of our Country’s need., May they always be remembered..