McWHORTER, WILLIAM A. - Medal of Honor Recipient
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company M, 126th
Infantry, 32d Infantry Division. Place and date: Leyte, Philippine Islands,
5 December 1944. Entered service at: Liberty, S.C. Birth: Liberty, S.C.
G.O. No.: 82, 27 September 1945. Citation: He displayed gallantry and intrepidity
at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged
in operations against the enemy. Pfc. McWhorter, a machine gunner, was
emplaced in a defensive position with 1 assistant when the enemy launched
a heavy attack. Manning the gun and opening fire, he killed several members
of an advancing demolition squad, when 1 of the enemy succeeded in throwing
a fused demolition charge in the entrenchment. Without hesitation and with
complete disregard for his own safety, Pfc. McWhorter picked up the improvised
grenade and deliberately held it close to his body, bending over and turning
away from his companion. The charge exploded, killing him instantly, but
leaving his assistant unharmed. Pfc. McWhorter's outstanding heroism and
supreme sacrifice in shielding a comrade reflect the highest traditions
of the military service.
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