<Li> Battles of Wonju </Li> <Tr> <Th> Awards </Th> <Td> Distinguished Service Cross Navy Distinguished Service Medal Army Distinguished Service Medal Silver Star Legion of Merit (2) Bronze Star Air Medal </Td> </Tr> <P> Oliver Prince Smith (October 26, 1893--December 25, 1977) was a highly decorated combat veteran of World War II and the Korean War . He is most noted for commanding the 1st Marine Division during the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, where he said "Retreat, hell! We're not retreating, we're just advancing in a different direction ." He retired at the rank of four - star general, being advanced in rank for having been specially commended for heroism in combat . </P> <P> Smith was born in Menard, Texas and grew up in Northern California . He attended the University of California, Berkeley, working his way through college doing odd jobs but mostly gardening and was a member of Alpha Kappa Lambda Fraternity He graduated in 1916 and reported for active duty as a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps on May 14, 1917 . </P>

Who said we are not retreating we're advancing in another direction