The fourth annual Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame induction ceremony and banquet took place Nov. 5 at St. Luke’s Ministry Hall in Columbus. Seventeen Georgia heroes were presented this prestigious honor in a moving ceremony presided over by state Sen. Ed Harbison, a 2014 inductee.
“Five of the newest members of this elite club were inducted posthumously,” said Hall of Fame founder Col. Paul Longgrear (USA-Ret), adding that “we are also pleased to announce the first female inductee, a former Viet Nam nurse commander of an Army field hospital.”
U.S. Marine Corps First Sgt. Curtis Clay Williamson of Fayetteville was an inductee “for his heroism and numerous acts of selfless bravery as an infantry squad leader in Vietnam,” according to a statement.
Here is the GMVHOF’s description of the events that led to this honor:
“On the 17 October 1966 near the demilitarized zone in northern South Vietnam, then Corporal Williamson, while serving as the lead element of his platoon, observed an approaching large force of well-armed North Vietnamese soldiers. Immediately, he took the threat under fire, killing two of the enemy. When his weapon jammed, he fearlessly continued to hold off the ever-advancing enemy with hand grenades until the remaining elements of his squad could maneuver to his dangerous location and render assistance.
“During the ensuing vicious fire fight, his platoon commander was gravely wounded. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Cpl. Williamson immediately raced over 20 meters through intense enemy automatic weapons fire to the protection, aid, and comfort of the wounded Marine.
“As he was rendering medical attention to his commander but, while always continuing to fight, he killed five more of the closing-in enemy soldiers at very close range. He then moved his squad to a more advantageous defensive position and called in close-in artillery fire in order to slow and eventually stop the enemy’s charge.
“His heroic and selfless actions undoubtedly saved the life of his platoon commander and prevented further casualties of his fellow Marines. By his daring initiative, inspiring courage, bold initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of imminent grave danger, Cpl. Williamson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Armed Forces.
“For his actions he was awarded the Purple Heart and our nation’s third-highest award for valor, the Silver Star. After 23 years of faithful military service, First Sgt. Williamson retired but continued to lead an exemplary life of selfless service and stoic sacrifice as a proud American, veteran, and patriot.”
All interested Georgians may visit GMVHOF.org to view a complete list of past and present members.
