Korean War
| Service # | 13393309 |
|---|---|
| Rank | Corporal U.S. Army |
| Date of Death | May 24 1953 |
Distinguished Service Cross
Korean Service Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Purple Heart
Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation
Republic of Korea War Service Medal
United Nations Service Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
For his leadership and great valor, Corporal Wetzel was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.
Notes
Corporal Wetzel was a member of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 224th Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division. On May 24, 1953, He fighting the enemy in the "Punchbowl" area of North Korea. When he saw a hostile group lying in ambush, he charged, killing one and wounding four. During the ensuing battle he was mortally wounded. When an enemy grenade fell among his group, he threw himself on the grenade to protect his comrades.