Ernst Honors the Life and Legacy of Colonel Ralph Puckett
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), an Army combat veteran, celebrated the legacy of Colonel Ralph Puckett, a Korean War veteran, member of the Army Ranger Regiment, and Medal of Honor recipient, after he passed away at the age of 97.
“Colonel Ralph Puckett’s acts of bravery and selfless service during the Korean War will continue to inspire generations to come. Under his leadership, the 8th U.S. Army Ranger Company secured critical ground in the fight against communism, enduring six brutal attacks from the Chinese Communist forces, where Puckett sustained several serious injuries. Immobilized by his wounds, Puckett commanded his team to leave him behind to vacate the area. However, his Rangers fought their way to his side and evacuated him to safety, speaking volumes of their respect.
“Over seventy years later, Puckett received the prestigious Medal of Honor, where not only our nation rightfully recognized his service, but President Moon of South Korea attended the ceremony to commend Puckett’s sacrifice.
“He built upon this legacy and equipped the next generation of military leaders by teaching courses and speaking at numerous Army and Ranger events even after retirement in 1971.
“Colonel Puckett was a friend and mentor to many servicemembers, including me, and he will be so dearly missed. My deepest condolences to his bride of 70 years, Jeannie Martin Puckett. I will continue working to enshrine Colonel Puckett’s legacy in our nation’s history and ensure his heroism is never forgotten.”
Ernst knew Colonel Puckett since the 1990s and celebrated his service and sacrifice during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last month.
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