On that day, at Leyte in the Philippines, he smothered the blast of an enemy-thrown explosive with his body, sacrificing himself to protect the man next to him.
Private First Class McWhorter's official Medal of Honor citation reads: He displayed gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in operations against the enemy.
McWhorter, a machine gunner, was emplaced in a defensive position with 1 assistant when the enemy launched a heavy attack.
McWhorter picked up the improvised grenade and deliberately held it close to his body, bending over and turning away from his companion.
McWhorter's outstanding heroism and supreme sacrifice in shielding a comrade reflect the highest traditions of the military service.