Leadership
On February 4, 1945, plans for an attack on an enemy-fortified position necessitated safe routes of advance through the mine-and-sniper-studded terrain of Strettoia Hills.
As a commander, Raiford volunteered to lead a daylight patrol to secure vital information. Disregarding his own safety, Raiford led his troops under intense small arms and mortar fire. Without communication, Raiford accomplished his mission and exposed himself to intense enemy fire. Although severely wounded, Raiford refused to retreat or surrender until he had secured all information needed to protect advancing troops.
Determined to lead every member of his patrol to safety without casualty, Raiford returned to open ground to successfully recover a wounded soldier pinned down by sniper fire.
Raiford was hospitalized for more than two years for massive internal injuries sustained during the dangerous intelligence and rescue mission.
Read more about this topic: Rudolph Douglas Raiford
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