Biography
Medal of Honor nominee Juan E. Negron was born in Corozal, Puerto Rico.
He entered the U.S. Army in March 1948.
Then-Sgt. Juan E. Negron distinguished himself on April 28, 1951, for actions near Kalma-Eri, Korea. Negron held the most vulnerable position on his company’s exposed right flank after an enemy force had overrun a section of the line. He held the position throughout the night, accurately hurling hand grenades at short range when hostile troops approached his position.
Following the war, Negron returned to the U.S. and remained on Active duty. He served a total of 23 years and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. His positions include the senior non-commissioned officer for the Directorate of Doctrine, which would help define the Army’s combat strategy, and the Inspector General in Thailand.
During his service he became a member of the Veterans of Foreign War, The Legion of Valor, and The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.
Upon retirement, Negron would become very involved in education and would enter into federal service in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.
In addition to the Medal of Honor, Negron received the Distinguished Service Cross (this award will be upgraded to the Medal of Honor on Mar. 18), Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Navy Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Infantryman Badge, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal, and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Citation for Distinguished Service Cross
Sgt. Juan E. Negron, a member of an Infantry regiment, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Kalma-Eri, Korea.
On April 28, 1951, Negron took up the most vulnerable position on his company’s exposed right flank, after an enemy force had overrun a section of the line. When notified that elements of the company were withdrawing, Negron refused to leave his exposed position, but delivered withering fire at hostile troops who had broken through a road block. When the hostile troops approached his position, Negron accurately hurled hand grenades at short range, halting their attack. Negron held the position throughout the night, while an allied counter attack was organized and launched. After the enemy had been repulsed, fifteen enemy dead were found only a few feet from Negron’s position.
The extraordinary heroism exhibited by Negron on this occasion, reflects great credit upon himself, and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.
Citation represents Soldier’s rank at time of action
Medal of Honor
Negron is set to receive the Medal of Honor posthumously in a ceremony at the White House on March 18.