Following the start of the Korean War, Wilkerson was attached to the 5th Marine Regiment under Colonel Raymond Murray and embarked for overseas service. He served as a rifle company executive officer and participated in the Inchon Landing, Recapture of Seoul and Battle of Chosin Reservoir. Wilkerson was later transferred to the headquarters staff of 5th Marine Regiment and remained in Korea until the summer of 1951. For his service in that country, Wilkerson was decorated with the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat "V".