Veterans Roll of Honor: ELIJAH O'NEAL

Branch of Service: United States Navy

Rank: Chief Petty Officer

Service history: CPO O'Neal originally enlisted in the Army, serving as a member of the 56th Army Band (Negro Enlisted). Mr. O'Neal related that he arrived in Korea in July 1950, and when the band wasn't playing for the incoming troops, he served as an infantryman, patrolling for North Korean infiltrators in the hills around Pusan. Members of the Army Band were also detailed to guard Prisoners of War. Mr. O'Neal transferred to the Navy and went on to serve 20 years, retiring in the rank of Chief Petty Officer. CPO O'Neal's last assignment was to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, where he helped in the development of the C-130 Hercules transport.

Awards and Decorations:

Navy Achievement Medal
Navy Good Conduct Medal (w/ 3 bronze stars)
Army Good Conduct Medal
Army of Occupation Medal
National Defense Service Medal (w/ 1 bronze star)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
Korean Service Medal (w/ 2 bronze stars)
United Nations Medal
Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation