Korean War
| Service # | 50001702 |
|---|---|
| Rank | Private First Class U.S. Army |
| Date of Death | September 17 1951 |
Combat Infantryman Badge
Korean Service Medal
Medal of Honor (Army)
National Defense Service Medal
Purple Heart
Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation
Republic of Korea War Service Medal
United Nations Service Medal
For his leadership and great valor, Private First Class Pililaau was awarded the Medal of Honor, the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.
Notes
Private First Class Pililaau was a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. On September 17, 1951 at "Heartbreak Ridge" near Pia-ri, North Korea, when his unit was forced to withdraw, he remained behind to cover the withdrawal. He fought valiantly, delaying the attackers, until his ammunition expired. He continued to fight hand to hand until mortally wounded.