Section 3. Captain Reginald Desiderio Interchange.
(a) Designation.--The proposed interchange on State Route 43 with State Route 51 in Jefferson Hills Borough, Allegheny County, is designated the Captain Reginald Desiderio Interchange.
(b) Plaque.--The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission shall erect a plaque indicating the accomplishments of Captain Reginald Desiderio in the Korean War which earned him the Medal of Honor as provided in subsection (c).
(c) Biography.--Reginald B. Desiderio was born September 12, 1918, in Clairton, Pennsylvania. He entered the Army in Gilroy, California. Desiderio served as commanding officer with Company E, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
Near Ipsok, Korea, November 27, 1950, Captain Desiderio distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. His company was given the mission of defending the command post of a task force against an enemy breakthrough. After personal reconnaissance during the darkness and under intense enemy fire, he placed his men in defensive positions to repel an attack. Early in the action he was wounded but refused evacuation and despite enemy fire continued to move among his men checking their positions and making sure each element was prepared to receive the next attack. Again wounded, Desiderio continued to direct his men. By inspiring leadership, he encouraged them to hold their position. In the subsequent fighting, when the fanatical enemy succeeded in penetrating the position, Desiderio personally charged them with rifle, carbine and grenades, inflicting many casualties until himself mortally wounded. Spurred on by his example, Company E repelled the final attack.
Captain Desiderio's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion to duty and his disregard for personal safety reflected the highest honor on himself and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army. His Medal of Honor was issued under General Order No. 58, August 2, 1951.