Herbert B. Powell

Herbert Powell was the Commander of the 17th Infantry Regimental Combat Team, 7th Infantry Division, the only U.S. unit to reach the Yalu River on China’s border during the Korean War. Colonel Powell distinguished himself by his extraordinary heroism in action while near Pung-san, Korea, from November 1-21, 1950. Powell fearlessly and repeatedly went forward in the face of devastating hostile fire, repulsed a major attack, and directed the fire that dislodged the enemy. Later, while suffering a severe leg injury, he continued close personal liaison with forward echelons. He fearlessly traveled hundreds of miles in rugged terrain despite enemy sniper fire, and successfully directed the patrolling and reorganization needed for the major attack across the Ungi River.