Korean War Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Sergeant 1st Class in Company A, 72nd Tank Battalion, US Army. In the early hours of September 1, 1950, Sergeant Kouma was a tank commander engaged in supporting infantry elements at the Naktong River, Korea. A withdrawal was ordered when an enemy force estimated at 500 crossed the river and launched an attack against the infantry positions. Sergeant Kouma discovered that his tank was the only obstacle in the path of the assult when he gave orders to his crew to open fire. Holding his ground, he manned the .50 caliber machinegun mounted on the rear deck of the tank and remained in position throughout the night, fighting off repeated enemy attacks. After more than 9 hours of constant combat, he was able to withdrew his vehicle to friendly lines after killing an estimated 250 enemy soldiers. For most conspicuous gallantry, he was promoted Master Sergeant and awarded the Medal of Honor on June 4, 1951.
Korean War Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Sergeant 1st Class in Company A, 72nd Tank Battalion, US Army. In the early hours of September 1, 1950, Sergeant Kouma was a tank commander engaged in supporting infantry elements at the Naktong River, Korea. A withdrawal was ordered when an enemy force estimated at 500 crossed the river and launched an attack against the infantry positions. Sergeant Kouma discovered that his tank was the only obstacle in the path of the assult when he gave orders to his crew to open fire. Holding his ground, he manned the .50 caliber machinegun mounted on the rear deck of the tank and remained in position throughout the night, fighting off repeated enemy attacks. After more than 9 hours of constant combat, he was able to withdrew his vehicle to friendly lines after killing an estimated 250 enemy soldiers. For most conspicuous gallantry, he was promoted Master Sergeant and awarded the Medal of Honor on June 4, 1951.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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