07/28/2026
🇺🇸 Honoring the Battle of Yechon | July 1950 🇺🇸
In the opening weeks of the Korean War, the 24th Infantry Regiment made history at the Battle of Yechon, securing one of the first major American ground victories of the conflict. Fighting against overwhelming odds, the regiment helped halt the North Korean advance, restoring confidence to United Nations forces during one of the war’s most critical moments.
Leading that historic victory was Captain Charles M. Bussey, a distinguished Tuskegee Airman of World War II who later transferred to the U.S. Army. As the ground commander at Yechon, Captain Bussey’s courageous leadership under fire inspired his soldiers to seize the objective and defeat a determined enemy force. For his heroism and exceptional command, he was awarded the Silver Star.
The Battle of Yechon also stands as a reminder of the remarkable legacy of the 24th Infantry Regiment, whose soldiers served with honor despite the challenges of segregation. Among those who exemplified that legacy were Private First Class William H. Thompson, the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor for actions in the Korean War after sacrificing his life to protect his fellow soldiers, and Sergeant Cornelius H. Charlton, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor after leading his men in a fearless assault despite being mortally wounded.
Today, we honor the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of the men of the 24th Infantry Regiment. Their victory at Yechon was more than a battlefield success—it was a testament to resilience, valor, and an enduring commitment to freedom.
We remember their sacrifice. We honor their legacy. We will never forget.
On this date in 1950, the first US victory in Korea was won by Black troops in the Army’s 24th Infantry Regiment. The victory happened at Yechon, where Captain Charles M. Bussey, a World War II Tuskegee Airman, was the ground commander. He earned a Silver Star. During the Korean War, two Black sol...