David C. Wilkes' Obituary
Private First Class David C. Wilkes, born May 21, 1930, was killed in action on December 2, 1950. David had enlisted in the Army and only Served during the Korean War. His military occupational specialty was a Light Weapons Infantryman. In late 1950, Wilkes was a member of Company D, 1st Battalion 32nd Infantry Regiment, 31st Regimental Combat Team, 7th Infantry Division. Approximately 2,500 U.S. and 700 South Korean soldiers assembled into the 31st Regimental Combat Team , which was deployed east of the Chosin Reservoir, North Korea, when it was attacked by overwhelming numbers of Chinese forces. As the Chinese attacks continued, American forces withdrew south. The U.S. Army evacuated approximately 1,500 service members; the remaining soldiers had been either captured, killed or missing in enemy territory. Wilkes experienced a traumatic event which resulted in loss of life on December 2, 1950 at the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. After 69 years, his body was finally accounted for on June 24, 2019. Wilkes was awarded the Purple heart and other distinguished commendations and awards for the greatest sacrifice any person can give for the country.
We thank you Private First Class David C. Wilkes for all you gave for our country.
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