Korean War Medal of Honor Recipient. He was issued the award posthumously on August 2, 1951 for his actions as a captain in command of Company E, 27th Infantry Regiment, with the 25th Infantry Regiment, US Army, on November 27, 1950, at the Battle of Ipsok, in present-day North Korea. He entered active duty in the US Army form the California National Guard when his unit was federalized in 1March 941, and he was commissioned a 2nd lieutenant after graduating from Officers Candidate School. During World War II, he served in Southern France and Germany, earning a Silver Star and Bronze Star (with three oak leaf clusters) for his courage. Following the war, he remained in the US Army and when hostilities broke out in Korea, he was sent there to be a company commander of the 27th Infantry. On November 27, 1950, while defending the command post of a task forne against an enemy breakthgrough, he was mortally wounded. He was also awarded a Purple Heart. His Medal of Honor citation reads: "Capt. Desiderio distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. His company was given the mission of defending the command post of a task force against an enemy breakthrough. After personal reconnaissance during darkness and under intense enemy fire, he placed his men in defensive positions to repel an attack. Early in the action he was wounded, but refused evacuation and despite enemy fire continued to move among his men checking their positions and making sure that each element was prepared to receive the next attack. Again wounded, he continued to direct his men. By his inspiring leadership he encouraged them to hold their position. In the subsequent fighting when the fanatical enemy succeeded in penetrating the position, he personally charged them with carbine, rifle, and grenades, inflicting many casualties until he himself was mortally wounded. His men, spurred on by his intrepid example, repelled this final attack. Capt. Desiderio's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion to duty, and his complete disregard for personal safety reflect the highest honor on him and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army."