VETERAN OF THE DAY
February 7, 2026
1LT BILL MASAYUKI OTOMO
U.S. ARMY
June 10, 1919 – February 7, 1951
KILLED IN ACTION | KOREAN WAR
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS (POSTHUMOUS)
BASIC INFORMATION
Name: Bill Masayuki Otomo
Rank: First Lieutenant (1LT)
Branch: United States Army
Unit: 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division
Date of Birth: June 10, 1919
Date of Death: February 7, 1951
Status: Killed in Action
Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumous)
HONORING HIS SERVICE
On February 7, 1951, First Lieutenant Bill Masayuki Otomo was killed in action while serving with the United States Army in Korea.
1LT Otomo’s leadership in combat is remembered for extraordinary heroism, recognized with the Distinguished Service Cross. In the brutal winter fighting of early 1951, American units were engaged in relentless ground combat under punishing conditions. It was in that environment, with lives depending on steady leadership, that Lieutenant Otomo gave everything.
He led from the front, the way the best officers do, and paid the highest price.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 94 – 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Bill M. Otomo (ASN: 0-1340575), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Otomo distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Ipack, Korea, on 27 November 1950. Leading his platoon into an area which was then under heavy enemy fire, Lieutenant Otomo personally placed each man in a defensive position, assigning fields of fire and ensuring the best possible cover for each individual. Almost immediately after occupying the position, the platoon was subjected to several fanatical attacks by an overwhelming enemy force. Although Lieutenant Otomo was hit in the back by grenade fragments, he refused medical attention for his wounds. Moving from position to position in the platoon area, he continued to inspire and encourage his men to hold. Led by Lieutenant Otomo, the platoon engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat, pushing them back and eliminating the threat to the company’s flank. Lieutenant Otomo’s courage, outstanding leadership, and cool judgment were an example to all concerned and prevented an enemy breakthrough at a critical point.
IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS
Some heroes are loud only in hindsight. In the moment, they’re simply the person who moves first, holds the line, and refuses to let others fall alone.
Today we honor 1LT Bill Masayuki Otomo for courage, leadership, and sacrifice.
The Micky Spano Show honors a Veteran of the Day, every day, because remembrance is not optional.
Today we honor 1LT Bill Masayuki Otomo, United States Army, who gave his life in Korea on February 7, 1951.
If you have photos, memories, or additional verified details you would like us to add to this tribute, please reach out so his story continues to be told.
Visit: https://mickyspano.com
Honor the fallen. Support the living. Teach the next generation.
Leave a Reply