KOREAN WAR MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS

The Medals of Honor

The Foundation of Freedom is the Courage of Ordinary People

History    On Line

*ABRELL, CHARLES G.

Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2d Battalion,1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Hangnyong, Korea, 10June 1951. Entered service at: Terre Haute, Ind. Born: 12 August 1931, TerreHaute, Ind. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk ofhis life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a fire team leaderin Company E, in action against enemy aggressor forces. While advancing with hisplatoon in an attack against well-concealed and heavily fortified enemy hillpositions, Cpl. Abrell voluntarily rushed forward through the assaulting squadwhich was pinned down by a hail of intense and accurate automatic-weapons firefrom a hostile bunker situated on commanding ground. Although previously woundedby enemy handgrenade fragments, he proceeded to carry out a bold, single-handedattack against the bunker, exhorting his comrades to follow him. Sustaining 2additional wounds as he stormed toward the emplacement, he resolutely pulled thepin from a grenade clutched in his hand and hurled himself bodily into thebunker with the live missile still in his grasp. Fatally wounded in theresulting explosion which killed the entire enemy guncrew within the stronghold,Cpl. Abrell, by his valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certaindeath, served to inspire all his comrades and contributed directly to thesuccess of his platoon in attaining its objective. His superb courage and heroicinitiative sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.He gallantly gave his life for his country.

ADAMS, STANLEY T.

Master Sergeant (then Sfc.), U.S. Army, Company A,19th Infantry Regiment. Place and date: Near Sesim-ni, Korea, 4 February 1951.Entered service at: Olathe, Kans. Born: 9 May 1922, DeSoto, Kans. G.O. No.: 66,2 August 1951. Citation: M/Sgt. Adams, Company A, distinguished himself byconspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty inaction against an enemy. At approximately 0100 hours, M/Sgt. Adams' platoon,holding an outpost some 200 yards ahead of his company, came under a determinedattack by an estimated 250 enemy troops. Intense small-arms, machinegun, andmortar fire from 3 sides pressed the platoon back against the main line ofresistance. Observing approximately 150 hostile troops silhouetted against theskyline advancing against his platoon, M/Sgt. Adams leaped to his feet, urgedhis men to fix bayonets, and he, with 13 members of his platoon, charged thishostile force with indomitable courage. Within 50 yards of the enemy M/Sgt.Adams was knocked to the ground when pierced in the leg by an enemy bullet. Hejumped to his feet and, ignoring his wound, continued on to close with the enemywhen he was knocked down 4 times from the concussion of grenades which hadbounced off his body. Shouting orders he charged the enemy positions and engagedthem in hand-to-hand combat where man after man fell before his terrificonslaught with bayonet and rifle butt. After nearly an hour of vicious actionM/Sgt. Adams and his comrades routed the fanatical foe, killing over 50 andforcing the remainder to withdraw. Upon receiving orders that his battalion wasmoving back he provided cover fire while his men withdrew. M/Sgt. Adams' superbleadership, incredible courage, and consummate devotion to duty so inspired hiscomrades that the enemy attack was completely thwarted, saving his battalionfrom possible disaster. His sustained personal bravery and indomitable fightingspirit against overwhelming odds reflect the utmost glory upon himself anduphold the finest traditions of the infantry and the military service.

BARBER, WILLIAM E.

Captain U.S. Marine Corps, commanding officer,Company F, 2d Battalion 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place anddate: Chosin Reservoir area, Korea, 28 November to 2 December 1950. Enteredservice at: West Liberty, Ky. Born: 30 November 1919, Dehart, Ky. Citation: Forconspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyondthe call of duty as commanding officer of Company F in action against enemyaggressor forces. Assigned to defend a 3-mile mountain pass along the division'smain supply line and commanding the only route of approach in the march fromYudam-ni to Hagaru-ri, Capt. Barber took position with his battle-weary troopsand, before nightfall, had dug in and set up a defense along the frozen,snow-covered hillside. When a force of estimated regimental strength savagelyattacked during the night, inflicting heavy casualties and finally surroundinghis position following a bitterly fought 7-hour conflict, Capt. Barber, afterrepulsing the enemy gave assurance that he could hold if supplied by airdropsand requested permission to stand fast when orders were received by radio tofight his way back to a relieving force after 2 reinforcing units had beendriven back under fierce resistance in their attempts to reach the isolatedtroops. Aware that leaving the position would sever contact with the 8,000marines trapped at Yudam-ni and jeopardize their chances of joining the 3,000more awaiting their arrival in Hagaru-ri for the continued drive to the sea, hechose to risk loss of his command rather than sacrifice more men if the enemyseized control and forced a renewed battle to regain the position, or abandonhis many wounded who were unable to walk. Although severely wounded in the legin the early morning of the 29th, Capt. Barber continued to maintain personalcontrol, often moving up and down the lines on a stretcher to direct the defenseand consistently encouraging and inspiring his men to supreme efforts despitethe staggering opposition. Waging desperate battle throughout 5 days and 6nights of repeated onslaughts launched by the fanatical aggressors, he and hisheroic command accounted for approximately 1,000 enemy dead in this epic standin bitter subzero weather, and when the company was relieved only 82 of hisoriginal 220 men were able to walk away from the position so valiantly defendedagainst insuperable odds. His profound faith and courage, great personal valor,and unwavering fortitude were decisive factors in the successful withdrawal ofthe division from the deathtrap in the Chosin Reservoir sector and reflect thehighest credit upon Capt. Barber, his intrepid officers and men, and the U.S.Naval Service.

*BARKER, CHARLES H.

Private First Class (then Pvt.), U.S. Army, CompanyK, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Sokkogae,Korea, 4 June 1953. Entered service at: Pickens County, S.C. Born: 12 April1935, Pickens County, S.C. G.O. No.: 37, 7 June 1955. Citation: Pfc. Barker, amember of Company K, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry andindomitable courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against theenemy. While participating in a combat patrol engaged in screening an approachto "Pork-Chop Outpost," Pfc. Barker and his companions surprised andengaged an enemy group digging emplacements on the slope. Totally unprepared,the hostile troops sought cover. After ordering Pfc. Barker and a comrade to laydown a base of fire, the patrol leader maneuvered the remainder of the platoonto a vantage point on higher ground. Pfc. Barker moved to an open area firinghis rifle and hurling grenades on the hostile positions. As enemy actionincreased in volume and intensity, mortar bursts fell on friendly positions,ammunition was in critical supply, and the platoon was ordered to withdraw intoa perimeter defense preparatory to moving back to the outpost. Voluntarilyelecting to cover the retrograde movement, he gallantly maintained a defense andwas last seen in close hand-to-hand combat with the enemy. Pfc. Barker'sunflinching courage, consummate devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice enabledthe patrol to complete the mission and effect an orderly withdrawal to friendlylines, reflecting lasting glory upon himself and upholding the highesttraditions of the military service.

*BAUGH, WILLIAM B.

Entered service at:Harrison, Ohio. Born: 7 July 1930, McKinney, Ky. Citation: For conspicuousgallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call ofduty while serving as a member of an antitank assault squad attached to CompanyG, during a nighttime enemy attack against a motorized column. Acting instantlywhen a hostile handgrenade landed in his truck as he and his squad prepared toalight and assist in the repulse of an enemy force delivering intenseautomatic-weapons and grenade fire from deeply entrenched and well-concealedroadside positions, Pfc. Baugh quickly shouted a warning to the other men in thevehicle and, unmindful of his personal safety, hurled himself upon the deadlymissile, thereby saving his comrades from serious injury or possible death.Sustaining severe wounds from which he died a short time afterward, Pfc. Baugh,by his superb courage and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, upheld the highesttraditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for hiscountry.

*BENFORD, EDWARD C.

Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy, attached toa company in the 1st Marine Division. Place and date: Korea, S September 1952.Entered service at: Philadelphia, Pa. Born: 15 January 1931, Staten Island, N.Y.Citation: For gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyondthe call of duty while serving in operations against enemy aggressor forces.When his company was subjected to heavy artillery and mortar barrages, followedby a determined assault during the hours of darkness by an enemy force estimatedat battalion strength, HC3c. Benford resolutely moved from position to positionin the face of intense hostile fire, treating the wounded and lending words ofencouragement. Leaving the protection of his sheltered position to treat thewounded when the platoon area in which he was working was attacked from both thefront and rear, he moved forward to an exposed ridge line where he observed 2marines in a large crater. As he approached the 2 men to determine theircondition, an enemy soldier threw 2 grenades into the crater while 2 other enemycharged the position. Picking up a grenade in each hand, HC3c. Benford leapedout of the crater and hurled himself against the on-rushing hostile soldiers,pushing the grenades against their chests and killing both the attackers.Mortally wounded while carrying out this heroic act, HC3c. Benford, by his greatpersonal valor and resolute spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almostcertain death, was directly responsible for saving the lives of his 2 comrades.His exceptional courage reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhancesthe finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life forothers.

*BENNETT, EMORY L.

Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 15thInfantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Sobangsan, Korea,24 June 1951. Entered service at: Cocoa, Fla. Born: 20 December 1929, New SmyrnaBeach, Fla. G.O. No.: 11, 1 February 1952. Citation: Pfc. Bennett a member ofCompany B, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at therisk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an armedenemy of the United Nations. At approximately 0200 hours, 2 enemy battalionsswarmed up the ridge line in a ferocious banzai charge in an attempt to dislodgePfc. Bennett's company from its defensive positions. Meeting the challenge, thegallant defenders delivered destructive retaliation, but the enemy pressed theassault with fanatical determination and the integrity of the perimeter wasimperiled. Fully aware of the odds against him, Pfc. Bennett unhesitatingly lefthis foxhole, moved through withering fire, stood within full view of the enemy,and, employing his automatic rifle, poured crippling fire into the ranks of theonrushing assailants, inflicting numerous casualties. Although wounded, Pfc.Bennett gallantly maintained his l-man defense and the attack was momentarilyhalted. During this lull in battle, the company regrouped for counterattack, butthe numerically superior foe soon infiltrated into the position. Upon orders tomove back, Pfc. Bennett voluntarily remained to provide covering fire for thewithdrawing elements, and, defying the enemy, continued to sweep the chargingfoe with devastating fire until mortally wounded. His willing self-sacrifice andintrepid actions saved the position from being overrun and enabled the companyto effect an orderly withdrawal. Pfc. Bennett's unflinching courage andconsummate devotion to duty reflect lasting glory on himself and the militaryservice.

BLEAK, DAVID B.

Sergeant, U.S. Army, Medical Company 223d InfantryRegiment, 40th Infantry Division. Place and date: Vicinity of Minari-gol, Korea,14 June 1952. Entered service at: Shelley, Idaho. Born: 27 February 1932, IdahoFalls, Idaho. G.O. No.: 83, 2 November 1953. Citation: Sgt. Bleak, a member ofthe medical company, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry andindomitable courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against theenemy. As a medical aidman, he volunteered to accompany a reconnaissance patrolcommitted to engage the enemy and capture a prisoner for interrogation. Forgingup the rugged slope of the key terrain, the group was subjected to intenseautomatic weapons and small arms fire and suffered several casualties. Afteradministering to the wounded, he continued to advance with the patrol. Nearingthe military crest of the hill, while attempting to cross the fire-swept area toattend the wounded, he came under hostile fire from a small group of the enemyconcealed in a trench. Entering the trench he closed with the enemy, killed 2with bare hands and a third with his trench knife. Moving from the emplacement,he saw a concussion grenade fall in front of a companion and, quickly shiftinghis position, shielded the man from the impact of the blast. Later, whileministering to the wounded, he was struck by a hostile bullet but, despite thewound, he undertook to evacuate a wounded comrade. As he moved down the hillwith his heavy burden, he was attacked by 2 enemy soldiers with fixed bayonets.Closing with the aggressors, he grabbed them and smacked their heads together,then carried his helpless comrade down the hill to safety. Sgt. Bleak'sdauntless courage and intrepid actions reflect utmost credit upon himself andare in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service.

*BRITTIN, NELSON V.

Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company I, 19thInfantry Regiment. Place and date: Vicinity of Yonggong-ni, Korea, 7 March 1951.Entered service at: Audubon, N.J. Birth: Audubon, N.J. G.O. No.: 12, 1 February1952. Citation: Sfc. Brittin, a member of Company I, distinguished himself byconspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty inaction. Volunteering to lead his squad up a hill, with meager cover againstmurderous fire from the enemy, he ordered his squad to give him support and, inthe face of withering fire and bursting shells, he tossed a grenade at thenearest enemy position. On returning to his squad, he was knocked down andwounded by an enemy grenade. Refusing medical attention, he replenished hissupply of grenades and returned, hurling grenades into hostile positions andshooting the enemy as they fled. When his weapon jammed, he leaped withouthesitation into a foxhole and killed the occupants with his bayonet and the buttof his rifle. He continued to wipe out foxholes and, noting that his squad hadbeen pinned down, he rushed to the rear of a machinegun position, threw agrenade into the nest, and ran around to its front, where he killed all 3occupants with his rifle. Less than 100 yards up the hill, his squad again cameunder vicious fire from another camouflaged, sandbagged, machinegun nestwell-flanked by supporting riflemen. Sfc. Brittin again charged this newposition in an aggressive endeavor to silence this remaining obstacle and randirect into a burst of automatic fire which killed him instantly. In hissustained and driving action, he had killed 20 enemy soldiers and destroyed 4automatic weapons. The conspicuous courage, consummate valor, and nobleself-sacrifice displayed by Sfc. Brittin enabled his inspired company to attainits objective and reflect the highest glory on himself and the heroic traditionsof the military service.

*BROWN, MELVIN L.

Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company D, 8thEngineer Combat Battalion. Place and date: Near Kasan, Korea, 4 September 1950.Entered service at: Erie, Pa. Birth: Mahaffey, Pa. G.O. No.: 11, 16 February1951. Citation. Pfc. Brown, Company D distinguished himself by conspicuousgallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action againstthe enemy. While his platoon was securing Hill 755 (the Walled City), the enemy,using heavy automatic weapons and small arms, counterattacked. Taking a positionon a 50-foot-high wall he delivered heavy rifle fire on the enemy. Hisammunition was soon expended and although wounded, he remained at his post andthrew his few grenades into the attackers causing many casualties. When hissupply of grenades was exhausted his comrades from nearby foxholes tossed othersto him and he left his position, braving a hail of fire, to retrieve and throwthem at the enemy. The attackers continued to assault his position and Pfc.Brown weaponless, drew his entrenching tool from his pack and calmly waiteduntil they 1 by 1 peered over the wall, delivering each a crushing blow upon thehead. Knocking 10 or 12 enemy from the wall, his daring action so inspired hisplatoon that they repelled the attack and held their position. Pfc. Brown'sextraordinary heroism, gallantry, and intrepidity reflect the highest creditupon himself and was in keeping with the honored traditions of the militaryservice. Reportedly missing in action and officially killed in action, September5, 1950.

BURKE, LLOYD L.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company G, 5th CavalryRegiment, 1st Cavalry Division. Place and date: Near Chong-dong, Korea, 28October 1951. Entered service at: Stuttgart, Ark. Born: 29 September 1924,Tichnor, Ark. G.O. No.: 43. Citation: 1st Lt. Burke, distinguished himself byconspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of dutyin action against the enemy. Intense enemy fire had pinned down leading elementsof his company committed to secure commanding ground when 1st Lt. Burke left thecommand post to rally and urge the men to follow him toward 3 bunkers impedingthe advance. Dashing to an exposed vantage point he threw several grenades atthe bunkers, then, returning for an Ml rifle and adapter, he made a loneassault, wiping out the position and killing the crew. Closing on the centerbunker he lobbed grenades through the opening and, with his pistol, killed 3 ofits occupants attempting to surround him. Ordering his men forward he chargedthe third emplacement, catching several grenades in midair and hurling them backat the enemy. Inspired by his display of valor his men stormed forward, overranthe hostile position, but were again pinned down by increased fire. Securing alight machinegun and 3 boxes of ammunition, 1st Lt. Burke dashed through theimpact area to an open knoll, set up his gun and poured a crippling fire intothe ranks of the enemy, killing approximately 75. Although wounded, he orderedmore ammunition, reloading and destroying 2 mortar emplacements and a machinegunposition with his accurate fire. Cradling the weapon in his arms he then led hismen forward, killing some 25 more of the retreating enemy and securing theobjective. 1st Lt. Burke's heroic action and daring exploits inspired his smallforce of 35 troops. His unflinching courage and outstanding leadership reflectthe highest credit upon himself, the infantry, and the U.S. Army.

*BURRIS, TONY K.

Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company L, 38thInfantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Place and date: vicinity of Mundung-ni,Korea 8 and 9 October 1951. Entered service at: Blanchard, Okla. Birth:Blanchard, Okla. G.O. No.: 84, 5 September 1952. Citation: Sfc. Burris, a memberof Company L, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstandingcourage above and beyond the call of duty. On 8 October, when his companyencountered intense fire from an entrenched hostile force, Sfc. Burris chargedforward alone, throwing grenades into the position and destroying approximately15 of the enemy. On the following day, spearheading a renewed assault on enemypositions on the next ridge, he was wounded by machinegun fire but continued theassault, reaching the crest of the ridge ahead of his unit and sustaining asecond wound. Calling for a 57mm. recoilless rifle team, he deliberately exposedhimself to draw hostile fire and reveal the enemy position. The enemy machinegunemplacement was destroyed. The company then moved forward and prepared toassault other positions on the ridge line. Sfc. Burris, refusing evacuation andsubmitting only to emergency treatment, joined the unit in its renewed attackbut fire from hostile emplacement halted the advance. Sfc. Burris rose to hisfeet, charged forward and destroyed the first emplacement with its heavymachinegun and crew of 6 men. Moving out to the next emplacement, and throwinghis last grenade which destroyed this position, he fell mortally wounded byenemy fire. Inspired by his consummate gallantry, his comrades renewed aspirited assault which overran enemy positions and secured Hill 605, a strategicposition in the battle for "Heartbreak Ridge," Sfc. Burris'indomitable fighting spirit, outstanding heroism, and gallant self-sacrificereflect the highest glory upon himself, the infantry and the U.S. Army.

CAFFERATA, HECTOR A., JR.

Private, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Company F, 2dBattalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Korea, 28November 1950. Entered service at: Dover, N.J. Born: 4 November 1929, New York,N.Y. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his lifeabove and beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company F, inaction against enemy aggressor forces. When all the other members of his fireteam became casualties, creating a gap in the lines, during the initial phase ofa vicious attack launched by a fanatical enemy of regimental strength againsthis company's hill position, Pvt. Cafferata waged a lone battle with grenadesand rifle fire as the attack gained momentum and the enemy threatenedpenetration through the gap and endangered the integrity of the entire defensiveperimeter. Making a target of himself under the devastating fire from automaticweapons, rifles, grenades, and mortars, he maneuvered up and down the line anddelivered accurate and effective fire against the onrushing force, killing 15,wounding many more, and forcing the others to withdraw so that reinforcementscould move up and consolidate the position. Again fighting desperately against arenewed onslaught later that same morning when a hostile grenade landed in ashallow entrenchment occupied by wounded marines, Pvt. Cafferata rushed into thegully under heavy fire, seized the deadly missile in his right hand and hurledit free of his comrades before it detonated, severing part of 1 finger andseriously wounding him in the right hand and arm. Courageously ignoring theintense pain, he staunchly fought on until he was struck by a sniper's bulletand forced to submit to evacuation for medical treatment Stouthearted andindomitable, Pvt. Cafferata, by his fortitude, great personal valor, anddauntless perseverance in the face of almost certain death, saved the lives ofseveral of his fellow marines and contributed essentially to the successachieved by his company in maintaining its defensive position against tremendousodds. His extraordinary heroism throughout was in keeping with the highesttraditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

*CHAMPAGNE, DAVID B.

Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Company A 1st Battalion,7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date. Korea, 28 May 1952.Entered service at: Wakefield R.I. Born: 11 November 1932, Waterville, Md.Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his lifeabove and beyond the call of duty while serving as a fire team leader of CompanyA, in action against enemy aggressor forces. Advancing with his platoon in theinitial assault of the company against a strongly fortified and heavily defendedhill position, Cpl. Champagne skillfully led his fire team through a veritablehail of intense enemy machinegun, small-arms, and grenade fire, overrunningtrenches and a series of almost impregnable bunker positions before reaching thecrest of the hill and placing his men in defensive positions. Suffering apainful leg wound while assisting in repelling the ensuing hostilecounterattack, which was launched under cover of a murderous hail of mortar andartillery fire, he steadfastly refused evacuation and fearlessly continued tocontrol his fire team When the enemy counterattack increased in intensity, and ahostile grenade landed in the midst of the fire team, Cpl. Champagneunhesitatingly seized the deadly missile and hurled it in the direction of theapproaching enemy. As the grenade left his hand, it exploded blowing off hishand and throwing him out of the trench. Mortally wounded by enemy mortar firewhile in this exposed position, Cpl. Champagne, by his valiant leadership,fortitude, and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certaindeath, undoubtedly saved the lives of several of his fellow marines. His heroicactions served to inspire all who observed him and reflect the highest creditupon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for hiscountry.

CHARETTE, WILLIAM R.

Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy MedicalCorpsman serving with a marine rifle company. Place and date: Korea, 27 March1953. Entered service at: Ludington, Michigan. Birth: Ludington, Mich. Citation:For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above andbeyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces during theearly morning hours. Participating in a fierce encounter with a cleverlyconcealed and well-entrenched enemy force occupying positions on a vital andbitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, HC3c.Charette repeatedly and unhesitatingly moved about through a murderous barrageof hostile small-arms and mortar fire to render assistance to his woundedcomrades. When an enemy grenade landed within a few feet of a marine he wasattending, he immediately threw himself upon the stricken man and absorbed theentire concussion of the deadly missile with his body. Although sustainingpainful facial wounds, and undergoing shock from the intensity of the blastwhich ripped the helmet and medical aid kit from his person, HC3c. Charetteresourcefully improvised emergency bandages by tearing off part of his clothing,and gallantly continued to administer medical aid to the wounded in his own unitand to those in adjacent platoon areas as well. Observing a seriously woundedcomrade whose armored vest had been torn from his body by the blast from anexploding shell, he selflessly removed his own battle vest and placed it uponthe helpless man although fully aware of the added jeopardy to himself. Movingto the side of another casualty who was suffering excruciating pain from aserious leg wound, HC3c. Charette stood upright in the trench line and exposedhimself to a deadly hail of enemy fire in order to lend more effective aid tothe victim and to alleviate his anguish while being removed to a position ofsafety. By his indomitable courage and inspiring efforts in behalf of hiswounded comrades, HC3c. Charette was directly responsible for saving many lives.His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhancesthe finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

*CHARLTON, CORNELIUS H.

Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 24th InfantryRegiment, 25th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Chipo-ri, Korea, 2 June1951. Entered service at: Bronx, N.Y. Born: 24 July 1929, East Gulf, W. Va. G.O.No.: 30, 19 March 1952. Citation: Sgt. Charlton, a member of Company C,distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyondthe call of duty in action against the enemy. His platoon was attacking heavilydefended hostile positions on commanding ground when the leader was wounded andevacuated. Sgt. Charlton assumed command, rallied the men, and spearheaded theassault against the hill. Personally eliminating 2 hostile positions and killing6 of the enemy with his rifle fire and grenades, he continued up the slope untilthe unit suffered heavy casualties and became pinned down. Regrouping the men heled them forward only to be again hurled back by a shower of grenades. Despite asevere chest wound, Sgt. Charlton refused medical attention and led a thirddaring charge which carried to the crest of the ridge. Observing that theremaining emplacement which had retarded the advance was situated on the reverseslope, he charged it alone, was again hit by a grenade but raked the positionwith a devastating fire which eliminated it and routed the defenders. The woundsreceived during his daring exploits resulted in his death but his indomitablecourage, superb leadership, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highestcredit upon himself the infantry, and the military service.

*CHRISTIANSON, STANLEY R.

Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2dBattalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Seoul,Korea, 29 September 1950. Entered service at: Mindoro, Wis. Born: 24 January1925, Mindoro, Wis. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at therisk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company E,in action against enemy aggressor forces at Hill 132, in the early morninghours. Manning 1 of the several listening posts covering approaches to theplatoon area when the enemy commenced the attack, Pfc. Christianson quickly sentanother marine to alert the rest of the platoon. Without orders, he remained inhis position and, with full knowledge that he would have slight chance ofescape, fired relentlessly at oncoming hostile troops attacking furiously withrifles, automatic weapons, and incendiary grenades. Accounting for 7 enemy deadin the immediate vicinity before his position was overrun and he himself fatallystruck down, Pfc. Christianson, by his superb courage, valiant fighting spirit,and devotion to duty, was responsible for allowing the rest of the platoon timeto man positions, build up a stronger defense on that flank, and repel theattack with 41 of the enemy destroyed, many more wounded, and 3 taken prisoner.His self-sacrificing actions in the face of overwhelming odds sustain andenhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Pfc. Christiansongallantly gave his life for his country.

*COLLIER, GILBERT G.

Sergeant (then Cpl.), U.S. Army, Company F, 223dInfantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Tutayon, Korea,19-20 July 1953. Entered service at: Tichnor Ark. Born: 30 December 1930,Hunter, Ark. G.O. No.: 3, 12 January 1955. Citation: Sgt. Collier, a member ofCompany F, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and indomitablecourage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. Sgt.Collier was pointman and assistant leader of a combat patrol committed to makecontact with the enemy. As the patrol moved forward through the darkness, he andhis commanding officer slipped and fell from a steep, 60-foot cliff and wereinjured. Incapacitated by a badly sprained ankle which prevented immediatemovement, the officer ordered the patrol to return to the safety of friendlylines. Although suffering from a painful back injury, Sgt. Collier elected toremain with his leader, and before daylight they managed to crawl back up andover the mountainous terrain to the opposite valley where they concealedthemselves in the brush until nightfall, then edged toward their companypositions. Shortly after leaving the daylight retreat they were ambushed and, inthe ensuing fire fight, Sgt. Collier killed 2 hostile soldiers, received painfulwounds, and was separated from his companion. Then, ammunition expended, heclosed in hand-to-hand combat with 4 attacking hostile infantrymen, killing,wounding, and routing the foe with his bayonet. He was mortally wounded duringthis action, but made a valiant attempt to reach and assist his leader in adesperate effort to save his comrade's life without regard for his own personalsafety. Sgt. Collier's unflinching courage, consummate devotion to duty, andgallant self-sacrifice reflect lasting glory upon himself and uphold the nobletraditions of the military service.

*COLLIER, JOHN W.

Corporal, U.S. Army, Company C, 27th InfantryRegiment. Place and date: Near Chindong-ni, Korea, 19 September 1950. Enteredservice at: Worthington, Ky. Born: 3 April 1929, Worthington, Ky. G.O. No.: 86,2 August 1951. Citation: Cpl. Collier, Company C, distinguished himself byconspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty inaction. While engaged in an assault on a strategic ridge strongly defended by afanatical enemy, the leading elements of his company encountered intenseautomatic weapons and grenade fire. Cpl. Collier and 3 comrades volunteered andmoved forward to neutralize an enemy machinegun position which was hampering thecompany's advance, but they were twice repulsed. On the third attempt, Cpl.Collier, despite heavy enemy fire and grenade barrages, moved to an exposedposition ahead of his comrades, assaulted and destroyed the machinegun nest,killing at least 4 enemy soldiers. As he returned down the rocky, fire-swepthill and joined his squad, an enemy grenade landed in their midst. Shouting awarning to his comrades, he, selflessly and unhesitatingly, threw himself uponthe grenade and smothered its explosion with his body. This intrepid actionsaved his comrades from death or injury. Cpl. Collier's supreme, personalbravery, consummate gallantry, and noble self-sacrifice reflect untold gloryupon himself and uphold the honored traditions of the military service.

COMMISKEY, HENRY A., SR.

First Lieutenant (then 2d Lt.), U.S. Marine Corps,Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place anddate: Near Yongdungp'o, Korea, 20 September 1950. Entered service at:Hattiesburg, Miss. Birth: 10 January 1927, Hattiesburg, Miss. Citation: Forconspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyondthe call of duty while serving as a platoon leader in Company C, in actionagainst enemy aggressor forces. Directed to attack hostile forces well dug in onHill 85, 1st Lt. Commiskey, spearheaded the assault, charging up the steepslopes on the run. Coolly disregarding the heavy enemy machinegun and small armsfire, he plunged on well forward of the rest of his platoon and was the firstman to reach the crest of the objective. Armed only with a pistol, he jumpedinto a hostile machinegun emplacement occupied by 5 enemy troops and quicklydisposed of 4 of the soldiers with his automatic pistol. Grappling with thefifth, 1st Lt. Commiskey knocked him to the ground and held him until he couldobtain a weapon from another member of his platoon and killed the last of theenemy guncrew. Continuing his bold assault, he moved to the next emplacement,killed 2 more of the enemy and then led his platoon toward the rear nose of thehill to rout the remainder of the hostile troops and destroy them as they fledfrom their positions. His valiant leadership and courageous fighting spiritserved to inspire the men of his company to heroic endeavor in seizing theobjective and reflect the highest credit upon 1st Lt. Commiskey and the U.S.Naval Service.

*COURSEN, SAMUEL S.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company C 5th CavalryRegiment. Place and date: Near Kaesong, Korea, 12 October 1950. Entered serviceat: Madison, N.J. Born: 4 August 1926 Madison, N.J. G.O. No.: 57, 2 August 1951.Citation: 1st Lt. Coursen distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry andintrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. While Company C wasattacking Hill 174 under heavy enemy small-arms fire, his platoon received enemyfire from close range. The platoon returned the fire and continued to advance.During this phase 1 his men moved into a well-camouflaged emplacement, which wasthought to be unoccupied, and was wounded by the enemy who were hidden withinthe emplacement. Seeing the soldier in difficulty he rushed to the man's aidand, without regard for his personal safety, engaged the enemy in hand-to-handcombat in an effort to protect his wounded comrade until he himself was killed.When his body was recovered after the battle 7 enemy dead were found in theemplacement. As the result of 1st Lt. Coursen's violent struggle several of theenemies' heads had been crushed with his rifle. His aggressive and intrepidactions saved the life of the wounded man, eliminated the main position of theenemy roadblock, and greatly inspired the men in his command. 1st Lt. Coursen'sextraordinary heroism and intrepidity reflect the highest credit on himself andare in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service.

*CRAIG, GORDON M.

Corporal, U.S. Army, Reconnaissance Company, 1stCavalry Division. Place and date: Near Kasan, Korea 10 September 1950. Enteredservice at. Brockton, Mass. Born: 1 August 1929, Brockton, Mass. G.O. No.: 23,25 April 1951. Citation: Cpl. Craig, 16th Reconnaissance Company, distinguishedhimself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call ofduty in action against the enemy. During the attack on a strategic enemy-heldhill his company's advance was subjected to intense hostile grenade mortar, andsmall-arms fire. Cpl. Craig and 4 comrades moved forward to eliminate an enemymachinegun nest that was hampering the company's advance. At that instance anenemy machine gunner hurled a handgrenade at the advancing men. Withouthesitating or attempting to seek cover for himself, Cpl. Craig threw himself onthe grenade and smothered its burst with his body. His intrepid and selflessact, in which he unhesitantly gave his life for his comrades, inspired them toattack with such ferocity that they annihilated the enemy machinegun crew,enabling the company to continue its attack. Cpl. Craig's noble self-sacrificereflects the highest credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions ofthe military service.

CRUMP, JERRY K.

Corporal, U.S. Army, Company L, 7th InfantryRegiment, 3d Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Chorwon, Korea, 6 and 7September 1951. Entered service at: Forest City, N.C. Born: 18 February 1933,Charlotte, N.C. G.O. No.: 68, 11 July 1952. Citation. Cpl. Crump, a member ofCompany L, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstandingcourage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. Duringthe night a numerically superior hostile force launched an assault against hisplatoon on Hill 284, overrunning friendly positions and swarming into thesector. Cpl. Crump repeatedly exposed himself to deliver effective fire into theranks of the assailants, inflicting numerous casualties. Observing 2 enemysoldiers endeavoring to capture a friendly machinegun, he charged and killedboth with his bayonet, regaining control of the weapon. Returning to hisposition, now occupied by 4 of his wounded comrades, he continued his accuratefire into enemy troops surrounding his emplacement. When a hostile soldierhurled a grenade into the position, Cpl. Crump immediately flung himself overthe missile, absorbing the blast with his body and saving his comrades fromdeath or serious injury. His aggressive actions had so inspired his comradesthat a spirited counterattack drove the enemy from the perimeter. Cpl. Crump'sheroic devotion to duty, indomitable fighting spirit, and willingness tosacrifice himself to save his comrades reflect the highest credit upon himself,the infantry and the U.S. Army.

*DAVENPORT, JACK A.

Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Company G, 3d Battalion,5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Vicinity ofSongnae-Dong, Korea, 21 September 1951. Entered service at: Mission, Kans. Born:7 September 1931, Kansas City, Mo. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry andintrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty whileserving as a squad leader in Company G, in action against enemy aggressorforces, early in the morning. While expertly directing the defense of hisposition during a probing attack by hostile forces attempting to infiltrate thearea, Cpl. Davenport, acting quickly when an enemy grenade fell into the foxholewhich he was occupying with another marine, skillfully located the deadlyprojectile in the dark and, undeterred by the personal risk involved, heroicallythrew himself over the live missile, thereby saving his companion from seriousinjury or possible death. His cool and resourceful leadership were contributingfactors in the successful repulse of the enemy attack and his superb courage andadmirable spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death enhanceand sustain the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Cpl. Davenportgallantly gave his life for his country.

*DAVIS, GEORGE ANDREW, JR.

Major, U.S. Air Force, CO, 334th Fighter Squadron,4th Fighter Group, 5th Air Force. Place and date: Near Sinuiju-Yalu River area,Korea, 10 February 1952. Entered service at: Lubbock, Tex. Born: 1 December1920, Dublin, Tex. Citation: Maj. Davis distinguished himself by conspicuousgallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call ofduty. While leading a flight of 4 F-86 Saberjets on a combat aerial patrolmission near the Manchurian border, Maj. Davis' element leader ran out of oxygenand was forced to retire from the flight with his wingman accompanying him. Maj.Davis and the remaining F-86's continued the mission and sighted a formation ofapproximately 12 enemy MIG-15 aircraft speeding southward toward an area wherefriendly fighter-bombers were conducting low level operations against theCommunist lines of communications. With selfless disregard for the numericalsuperiority of the enemy, Maj. Davis positioned his 2 aircraft, then dove at theMIG formation. While speeding through the formation from the rear he singled outa MIG-15 and destroyed it with a concentrated burst of fire. Although he was nowunder continuous fire from the enemy fighters to his rear, Maj. Davis sustainedhis attack. He fired at another MIG-15 which, bursting into smoke and flames,went into a vertical dive. Rather than maintain his superior speed and evade theenemy fire being concentrated on him, he elected to reduce his speed and soughtout still a third MIG-15. During this latest attack his aircraft sustained adirect hit, went out of control, then crashed into a mountain 30 miles south ofthe Yalu River. Maj. Davis' bold attack completely disrupted the enemyformation, permitting the friendly fighter-bombers to successfully completetheir interdiction mission. Maj. Davis, by his indomitable fighting spirit,heroic aggressiveness, and superb courage in engaging the enemy againstformidable odds exemplified valor at its highest.

DAVIS, RAYMOND G.

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps commandingofficer, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place anddate: Vicinity Hagaru-ri, Korea, 1 through 4 December 1950. Entered service at:Atlanta, Ga. Born: 13 January 1915, Fitzgerald, Ga. Citation: For conspicuousgallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call ofduty as commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, in action against enemyaggressor forces. Although keenly aware that the operation involved breakingthrough a surrounding enemy and advancing 8 miles along primitive icy trails inthe bitter cold with every passage disputed by a savage and determined foe, Lt.Col. Davis boldly led his battalion into the attack in a daring attempt torelieve a beleaguered rifle company and to seize, hold, and defend a vitalmountain pass controlling the only route available for 2 marine regiments indanger of being cut off by numerically superior hostile forces during theirre-deployment to the port of Hungnam. When the battalion immediately encounteredstrong opposition from entrenched enemy forces commanding high ground in thepath of the advance, he promptly spearheaded his unit in a fierce attack up thesteep, ice-covered slopes in the face of withering fire and, personally leadingthe assault groups in a hand-to-hand encounter, drove the hostile troops fromtheir positions, rested his men, and reconnoitered the area under enemy fire todetermine the best route for continuing the mission. Always in the thick of thefighting Lt. Col. Davis led his battalion over 3 successive ridges in the deepsnow in continuous attacks against the enemy and, constantly inspiring andencouraging his men throughout the night, brought his unit to a point within1,500 yards of the surrounded rifle company by daybreak. Although knocked to theground when a shell fragment struck his helmet and 2 bullets pierced hisclothing, he arose and fought his way forward at the head of his men until hereached the isolated marines. On the following morning, he bravely led hisbattalion in securing the vital mountain pass from a strongly entrenched andnumerically superior hostile force, carrying all his wounded with him, including22 litter cases and numerous ambulatory patients. Despite repeated savage andheavy assaults by the enemy, he stubbornly held the vital terrain until the 2regiments of the division had deployed through the pass and, on the morning of 4December, led his battalion into Hagaru-ri intact. By his superb leadership,outstanding courage, and brilliant tactical ability, Lt. Col. Davis was directlyinstrumental in saving the beleaguered rifle company from complete annihilationand enabled the 2 marine regiments to escape possible destruction. His valiantdevotion to duty and unyielding fighting spirit in the face of almostinsurmountable odds enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the U.S. NavalService.

DEAN, WILLIAM F.

Major General, U.S. Army, commanding general, 24thInfantry Division. Place and date: Taejon, Korea, 20 and 21 July 1950. Enteredservice at: California. Born: 1 August 1899, Carlyle, Ill. G.O. No.: 7, 16February 1951. Citation: Maj. Gen. Dean distinguished himself by conspicuousgallantry and intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond thecall of duty. In command of a unit suddenly relieved from occupation duties inJapan and as yet untried in combat, faced with a ruthless and determined enemy,highly trained and overwhelmingly superior in numbers, he felt it his duty totake action which to a man of his military experience and knowledge was clearlyapt to result in his death. He personally and alone attacked an enemy tank whilearmed only with a handgrenade. He also directed the fire of his tanks from anexposed position with neither cover nor concealment while under observedartillery and small-arm fire. When the town of Taejon was finally overrun herefused to insure his own safety by leaving with the leading elements butremained behind organizing his retreating forces, directing stragglers, and waslast seen assisting the wounded to a place of safety. These actions indicatethat Maj. Gen. Dean felt it necessary to sustain the courage and resolution ofhis troops by examples of excessive gallantry committed always at the threatenedportions of his frontlines. The magnificent response of his unit to this willingand cheerful sacrifice, made with full knowledge of its certain cost, ishistory. The success of this phase of the campaign is in large measure due toMaj. Gen. Dean's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion to his men,and his complete disregard for personal safety.

*DESIDERIO, REGINALD B.

Captain, U.S. Army, commanding officer, Company E,27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Ipsok,Korea, 27 November 1950. Entered service at: Gilroy, Calif. Born: 12 September1918, Clairton, Pa. G.O. No.: 58, 2 August 1951. Citation: Capt. Desideriodistinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the repeatedrisk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. His company was given themission of defending the command post of a task force against an enemybreakthrough. After personal reconnaissance during darkness and under intenseenemy fire, he placed his men in defensive positions to repel an attack. Earlyin the action he was wounded, but refused evacuation and despite enemy firecontinued to move among his men checking their positions and making sure thateach element was prepared to receive the next attack. Again wounded, hecontinued to direct his men. By his inspiring leadership he encouraged them tohold their position. In the subsequent fighting when the fanatical enemysucceeded in penetrating the position, he personally charged them with carbine,rifle, and grenades, inflicting many casualties until he himself was mortallywounded. His men, spurred on by his intrepid example, repelled this finalattack. Capt. Desiderio's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion toduty, and his complete disregard for personal safety reflect the highest honoron him and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.

*DEWERT, RICHARD DAVID

Hospital Corpsman, U.S. Navy. Hospital Corpsmanattached to Marine infantry company, 1st Marine Division. Place and date: Korea,5 April 1951. Entered service at: Taunton, Mass. Birth: Taunton, Mass. Citation:For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above andbeyond the call of duty while serving as a HC, in action against enemy aggressorforces. When a fire team from the point platoon of his company was pinned downby a deadly barrage of hostile automatic weapons fired and suffered manycasualties, HC Dewert rushed to the assistance of 1 of the more seriouslywounded and, despite a painful leg wound sustained while dragging the strickenmarine to safety, steadfastly refused medical treatment for himself andimmediately dashed back through the fireswept area to carry a second wounded manout of the line of fire. Undaunted by the mounting hail of devastating enemyfire, he bravely moved forward a third time and received another serious woundin the shoulder after discovering that a wounded marine had already died. Stillpersistent in his refusal to submit to first aid, he resolutely answered thecall of a fourth stricken comrade and, while rendering medical assistance, washimself mortally wounded by a burst of enemy fire. His courageous initiative,great personal valor, and heroic spirit of self-sacrifice in the face ofoverwhelming odds reflect the highest credit upon HC Dewert and enhance thefinest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for hiscountry.

DEWEY, DUANE E.

Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Company E, 2dBattalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: NearPanmunjon, Korea, 16 April 1952. Entered service at: Muskegon, Mich. Born: 16November 1931, Grand Rapids, Mich. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry andintrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty whileserving as a gunner in a machinegun platoon of Company E, in action againstenemy aggressor forces. When an enemy grenade landed close to his position whilehe and his assistant gunner were receiving medical attention for their woundsduring a fierce night attack by numerically superior hostile forces, Cpl. Dewey,although suffering intense pain, immediately pulled the corpsman to the groundand, shouting a warning to the other marines around him. bravely smothered thedeadly missile with his body, personally absorbing the full force of theexplosion to save his comrades from possible injury or death. His indomitablecourage, outstanding initiative, and valiant efforts in behalf of others in theface of almost certain death reflect the highest credit upon Cpl. Dewey andenhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

DODD, CARL H.

First Lieutenant (then 2d Lt.), U.S. Army, Company E,5th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Subuk,Korea, 30 and 31 January 1951. Entered service at: Kenvir, Ky. Born: 21 April1925, Evarts, Ky. G.O. No.: 37, 4 June 1951. Citation: 1st Lt. Dodd, Company E,distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyondthe call of duty in action against the enemy. First Lt. Dodd, given theresponsibility of spearheading an attack to capture Hill 256, a key terrainfeature defended by a well-armed, crafty foe who had withstood several previousassaults, led his platoon forward over hazardous terrain under hostilesmall-arms, mortar, and artillery fire from well-camouflaged enemy emplacementswhich reached such intensity that his men faltered. With utter disregard for hissafety, 1st Lt. Dodd moved among his men, reorganized and encouraged them, andthen single-handedly charged the first hostile machinegun nest, killing orwounding all its occupants. Inspired by his incredible courage, his platoonresponded magnificently and, fixing bayonets and throwing grenades, closed onthe enemy and wiped out every hostile position as it moved relentlessly onwardto its initial objective. Securing the first series of enemy positions, 1st Lt.Dodd again reorganized his platoon and led them across a narrow ridge and ontoHill 256. Firing his rifle and throwing grenades, he advanced at the head of hisplatoon despite the intense concentrated hostile fire which was brought to bearon their narrow avenue of approach. When his platoon was still 200 yards fromthe objective he moved ahead and with his last grenade destroyed an enemy mortarkilling the crew. Darkness then halted the advance but at daybreak 1st Lt. Dodd,again boldly advancing ahead of his unit, led the platoon through a dense fogagainst the remaining hostile positions. With bayonet and grenades he continuedto set pace without regard for the danger to his life, until he and his troopshad eliminated the last of the defenders and had secured the final objective.First Lt. Dodd's superb leadership and extraordinary heroism inspired his men toovercome this strong enemy defense reflecting the highest credit upon himselfand upholding the esteemed traditions of the military service.

*DUKE, RAY E.

Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company C, 21stInfantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Mugok, Korea, 26April 1951. Entered service at: Whitwell (Marion County), Tenn. Born: 9 May1923, Whitwell, Tenn. G.O. No.: 20, 19 March 1954. Citation: Sfc. Duke, a memberof Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstandingcourage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. Uponlearning that several of his men were isolated and heavily engaged in an areayielded by his platoon when ordered to withdraw, he led a small force in adaring assault which recovered the position and the beleaguered men. Anotherenemy attack in strength resulted in numerous casualties but Sfc. Duke, althoughwounded by mortar fragments, calmly moved along his platoon line to coordinatefields of fire and to urge his men to hold firm in the bitter encounter. Woundeda second time he received first aid and returned to his position. When the enemyagain attacked shortly after dawn, despite his wounds, Sfc. Duke repeatedlybraved withering fire to insure maximum defense of each position. Threatenedwith annihilation and with mounting casualties, the platoon was again ordered towithdraw when Sfc. Duke was wounded a third time in both legs and was unable towalk. Realizing that he was impeding the progress of 2 comrades who werecarrying him from the hill, he urged them to leave him and seek safety. He waslast seen pouring devastating fire into the ranks of the onrushing assailants.The consummate courage, superb leadership, and heroic actions of Sfc. Duke,displayed during intensive action against overwhelming odds, reflect the highestcredit upon himself, the infantry, and the U.S. Army.

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