Richard Ryan (Medal of Honor)

Richard Ryan (August 10, 1925 – May 28, 1950) was a United States Marine Corps Reserve private first class who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Korean War. Ryan earned the nation's highest military decoration for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, First Marine Division near the village of Opari, Korea, on May 1, 1951.

Ryan was born in Aurora, Illinois, and enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve in 1948. He was called to active duty in 1950 during the Korean War.

During the battle near Opari, Private First Class Ryan voluntarily remained in his position, delivering accurate covering fire to protect the withdrawal of his comrades, despite being under intense enemy fire. He continued his actions even after sustaining multiple serious wounds. His heroic actions allowed his fellow Marines to escape the danger area, at the cost of his own life.

For his extraordinary heroism, Ryan was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His medal was presented to his family by the Secretary of the Navy in a ceremony on February 2, 1952. Ryan is buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Aurora, Illinois.