Korean War Legacy Project

James M. Winston

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Bio

James “Jim” Madison Winston enlisted in the U.S. Army when he was just 17. On July 4, 1950, during intense fighting in Korea, he was wounded in the hip after witnessing the deaths of his commander, sergeant, lieutenant, and several close friends. Despite his injury, his comrades pulled him to safety and got him to a first-aid station. Jim was later treated at a hospital in Japan before returning to the United States to recover. His story of survival and bravery was featured in the December 1950 issue of SAGA magazine, written by Jim Thompson. For his courage and service, Jim received numerous honors, including the Purple Heart, Excellent Marksmanship Award, Korean President’s Award, U.S. President’s Citation, Asiatic-Pacific Medal, Honor Service Medal, and Good Conduct Award. After the war, Jim married his sweetheart, Helen, and together they raised nine children. He passed away on February 27, 2005.