Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) issued the following statement about Sgt. Eduardo C. Gomez, who received the Medal of Honor posthumously for his courageous actions in the Korean War during a White House ceremony honoring 24 Army veterans for their valor in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.
“As the Representative of Naval Base Ventura County in Congress, I’m constantly reminded of the sacrifices our service men and women, and their families, make for our country every day,” said Brownley. “I am so pleased that the President recognized and paid tribute posthumously to Sgt. Gomez for his bravery in Korea and his heroism in battle.”
Born in Los Angeles, Sgt. Eduardo Gomez served with Company I, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. During combat operations against an armed enemy in Tabu-dong, Korea on September 3, 1950, he distinguished himself by heroically defending his unit while retreating from the advancing enemy. During this battle, Gomez suffered from wounds to his left side and burns to his hands, but he refused treatment until his unit established a new defensive position that maintained appropriate safety for his fellow comrades.
In addition to the Medal of Honor, Gomez, who served in both Korea and World War II, received the Distinguished Service Cross (the second-highest military award, which was upgraded today to the Medal of Honor), Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and other medals and honors.
Gomez’s nephew, Pete Corrall of Ojai, received the Medal of Honor on behalf of his uncle.
Issues: 113th Congress, Veterans' Affairs