Nicholas Oresko, American sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient (d. 2013)

Nicholas Oresko (January 18, 1917 – October 4, 2013) was an extraordinary American combat veteran of World War II, renowned for his exceptional bravery and unwavering dedication to duty. His name is permanently etched in military history as a recipient of the prestigious Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. This profound recognition was bestowed upon him for his singularly valorous and selfless actions in Germany on January 23, 1945, during a critical phase of the war.

Who Was Nicholas Oresko?

Born in Bayonne, New Jersey, Nicholas Oresko exemplified the spirit of a generation called upon to defend global freedom. He answered the call to service during World War II, joining the United States Army. His military career saw him assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 302nd Infantry Regiment, of the 94th Infantry Division. This division played a pivotal role in the latter stages of the European Theater, particularly during the Allied advance into Germany and the fierce fighting following the Battle of the Bulge.

The Context: World War II in Early 1945

By January 1945, World War II was entering its final, brutal phase in Europe. Allied forces were pushing deeper into German territory, facing fierce resistance from a determined enemy often entrenched in well-prepared defensive positions. Combat conditions were extremely harsh, characterized by freezing temperatures, challenging terrain, and intense firefights. It was in this unforgiving environment, near the strategically important village of Tettingen in Germany, that First Sergeant Oresko’s heroism unfolded, demonstrating the immense personal courage required to break enemy lines.

Medal of Honor Actions: January 23, 1945

On the morning of January 23, 1945, First Sergeant Oresko’s platoon encountered a formidable German machine gun strongpoint that had pinned down his company, inflicting casualties and halting their crucial advance. Demonstrating incredible initiative and complete disregard for his own safety, Oresko, armed with a rifle and grenades, single-handedly charged the heavily fortified enemy position. Under a hail of intense enemy fire, he successfully managed to neutralize the machine gun and its crew, eliminating a significant and deadly threat to his comrades and allowing his unit to move forward.

Despite suffering grievous wounds, including a severe injury to his leg from enemy machine gun fire, Oresko refused immediate medical attention. Instead, displaying remarkable resilience, he rallied his men and, though bleeding profusely, led a renewed assault on a second, equally dangerous enemy strongpoint positioned approximately 200 yards away. His relentless charge and courageous leadership inspired his platoon to overcome the second position, securing a vital objective and enabling his company to continue its advance. His unparalleled actions not only saved countless lives but also proved decisive in breaking the enemy's defense in that critical sector, allowing for a strategic breakthrough.

The Significance of the Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government, bestowed upon an individual serving in the U.S. Armed Forces for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States. Nicholas Oresko's receipt of this honor underscores the extraordinary nature of his bravery, demonstrating a level of self-sacrifice and courage rarely seen. His official citation highlights his "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty," marking him as one of the elite few recognized for such profound heroism.

Nicholas Oresko's Legacy

After the war, Nicholas Oresko returned to civilian life, bearing the physical scars of battle but embodying the enduring spirit of an American hero. He lived a remarkably long life, passing away at the age of 96 on October 4, 2013, making him one of the last living Medal of Honor recipients from World War II at the time of his death. His inspiring story continues to serve as a powerful testament to the valor, resilience, and profound sacrifices made by the "Greatest Generation" during World War II, ensuring that their contributions to freedom are never forgotten.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nicholas Oresko

When was Nicholas Oresko born and when did he pass away?
Nicholas Oresko was born on January 18, 1917, and he passed away on October 4, 2013, at the age of 96.
For what specific actions did Nicholas Oresko receive the Medal of Honor?
He received the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary valor on January 23, 1945, near Tettingen, Germany. During this engagement, he single-handedly assaulted and neutralized a German machine gun position, and despite being severely wounded, he then led his platoon in a successful assault on a second strongpoint, significantly contributing to the breakthrough of enemy lines.
Which unit did Nicholas Oresko serve with during World War II?
Nicholas Oresko served as a First Sergeant in Company C, 1st Battalion, 302nd Infantry Regiment, of the 94th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army.
What is the Medal of Honor and why is it significant?
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It is bestowed for personal acts of extreme gallantry and intrepidity "above and beyond the call of duty" in combat against an enemy of the United States, signifying exceptional heroism and self-sacrifice.