Medal of Honor recipient Col. Ralph Puckett’s remains will lie in honor later this month at the U.S. Capitol
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COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — Col. Ralph Puckett will receive one final honor and recognition from the nation he served with distinction before he’s laid to rest.
Col. Puckett received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions on a Korean battlefield in 1950. It was announced Tuesday that Puckett’s remains will lie in honor in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol on Monday, April 29.
Col. Puckett was the last surviving Korean War Medal of Honor recipient.
The following statement was released by House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer: “The extraordinary valor of Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr. represents the best of the 1.7 million Americans who left home to fight for freedom in the Korean War. He demonstrated tireless sacrifice for our country and his fellow Rangers and is an exceptional model for servicemembers and civilians alike. To recognize Colonel Puckett’s remarkable heroism and service, and the contributions of all Korean War veterans, it is our privilege to permit his remains to lie in honor in the Rotunda of the Capitol.”
Puckett died on April 8 in his north Columbus home. He was 97.
A celebration of Col. Puckett’s life is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at the National Infantry Museum. The event will include full military honors and will be on the parade field.
A private burial will be held after his ashes are returned from Washington, D.C. His remains will be interred at the Parkhill Cemetery in Columbus.
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