The Citadel to honor former graduate and Medal of Honor recipient with events

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – To honor the life of a former Citadel graduate who was killed while saving his crew from the enemy during the Vietnam War, the military college has planned a discussion panel and parade scheduled for Friday afternoon.

The Citadel will host a panel discussion at 1:45 p.m. in Capers Hall auditorium to discuss the life of Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Hugh Reavis Nelson Jr., ’59.

Capt. Nelson’s son and daughter will serve as panel members and discuss their father’s legacy, what receiving the Medal of Honor represents and attending the White House ceremony.

President Joe Biden presented the award to Capt. Nelson’s daughter, Debra Nelson McKnight on his behalf in January.

Following the panel, a traditional full-dress military parade will occur at 3:45 p.m. on Summerall Field to recognize Capt. Nelson and his family.

28-year-old Capt. Nelson was gunned down by insurgents while using his own body as a shield so his Army crew could evacuate fellow injured soldiers while attempting a reconnaissance mission on June 5, 1966.