Medal of Honor Monday: Honoring Richard William O'Neill and U.S. Bravery in World War I

By

Daniel Tobias Flint

Logo by CECILIA MARIE TATTOOS

This #MedalofHonor Monday, we recognize the incredible courage of Sergeant Richard William O'Neill, a World War I hero whose actions exemplify the valor and determination of the U.S. soldiers who served during "The Great War." As an 11th-grade U.S. history teacher, I believe stories like his are essential to understanding the human element of war and the sacrifices made to defend freedom.

The Congressional Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration, was established during the Civil War to recognize acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. Authorized by Congress and signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln in 1861, the medal was initially created for the Navy and later extended to the Army in 1862. Its origins were rooted in the need to formally honor extraordinary bravery displayed by Union soldiers and sailors. Over time, the criteria for receiving the Medal of Honor evolved, emphasizing selfless action in combat that places the recipient's life at risk for the greater good. Since its inception, fewer than 4,000 Medals of Honor have been awarded, symbolizing the rarity and significance of such extraordinary heroism. Recipients are held in the highest regard, embodying the values of courage, sacrifice, and dedication to duty, and their actions serve as enduring examples of military excellence.

U.S. Involvement in World War I

When World War I erupted in 1914, the United States initially maintained a position of neutrality. However, mounting provocations—such as Germany’s unrestricted submarine warfare and the interception of the Zimmermann Telegram, which revealed a German proposal to ally with Mexico against the U.S.—prompted America to join the war in April 1917.

President Woodrow Wilson declared the U.S. would fight to make the world “safe for democracy.” This ideal inspired millions of Americans to enlist. By the time the war ended on November 11, 1918, over four million Americans had served in the U.S. Armed Forces, with more than 116,000 making the ultimate sacrifice.

Among these brave individuals was Richard William O’Neill, whose actions during the Battle of the Ourcq River highlight the courage and resilience of the American soldier.

The Heroism of Richard William O’Neill

Born on August 28, 1898, in New York City, O’Neill served with Company D of the 165th Infantry, part of the 42nd "Rainbow" Division US Army —a unit comprised of National Guard troops from across the country. On July 30, 1918, during a grueling battle along the Ourcq River in France, O’Neill demonstrated extraordinary heroism.

As his unit prepared to assault enemy positions, O’Neill advanced ahead of his troops and single-handedly attacked a detachment of 25 enemy soldiers. Despite sustaining multiple pistol wounds in the ensuing hand-to-hand combat, he pressed forward, commanding his detachment and inspiring his comrades to continue the assault.

When additional injuries forced his evacuation, O’Neill insisted on first reporting critical intelligence about enemy positions to his battalion commander. His actions not only demonstrated remarkable physical and mental endurance but also underscored his unwavering commitment to his mission and comrades.

For his valor, O’Neill was awarded the Medal of Honor in November 1919. The award was presented at Fordham University by Marshal Ferdinand Foch, the Supreme Allied Commander during the war, who recognized the exceptional bravery of the young sergeant.

The citation for his Medal of Honor captures the essence of his bravery:

In advance of an assaulting line, he attacked a detachment of about 25 of the enemy. In the ensuing hand-to-hand encounter he sustained pistol wounds, but heroically continued in the advance, during which he received additional wounds; but, with great physical effort, he remained in active command of his detachment. Being again wounded, he was forced by weakness and loss of blood to be evacuated, but insisted upon being taken first to the battalion commander in order to transmit to him valuable information relative to enemy positions and the disposition of our men.

Bringing Stories of Valor into the Classroom

In my 11th-grade U.S. history class, I incorporate stories like Richard William O’Neill’s to help students connect with the human side of history. Teaching about World War I is not just about dates and battles—it’s about understanding the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of individuals who shaped the course of history.

To bring these stories to life, I use a variety of methods:

• Primary Sources: We analyze O’Neill’s Medal of Honor citation and other firsthand accounts of World War I soldiers.
• Interactive Activities: Students participate in simulations, such as drafting “letters home” from the trenches, to experience the emotional and physical challenges soldiers faced.
• Local History Connections: We explore how World War I impacted communities across the U.S., including Jacksonville’s own contributions to the war effort.
• Reflections on Courage: By discussing the qualities that define bravery, students connect historical examples to modern values, fostering a deeper appreciation for service and sacrifice.

Remembering a Legacy of Courage

Richard William O’Neill’s legacy reminds us of the extraordinary sacrifices made by soldiers during World War I. His actions along the Ourcq River embody the highest ideals of military service and provide an enduring example of courage under fire.

When O’Neill passed away on April 9, 1982, he left behind not only a story of heroism but also a challenge to future generations: to remember and honor those who fought to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.

This Medal of Honor Monday, let us not only celebrate Richard William O’Neill but also reflect on the countless others who have shown bravery in the face of adversity. As an educator, it is my mission to ensure these stories continue to inspire young minds and remind us all of the enduring power of courage, sacrifice, and resilience.

This is why I love teaching for Duval County Public Schools —it gives me the opportunity to showcase the incredible bravery of our U.S. military and transform history from words on a page into real, tangible stories of valor and sacrifice. Through engaging lessons and local connections, such as Jacksonville's proud military heritage, I can bring these narratives to life for my students. It’s not just about teaching facts; it’s about honoring the courage of those who served and inspiring my students to connect with history on a personal level. This ability to blend education with storytelling is what makes teaching here so meaningful and impactful.