Private First Class Charles George Medal of Honor Citation

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Cherokee Indian Receives Medal of Honor

Private First Class Charles George
 Medal of Honor Citation

Name: Charles George
Rank: Private First Class
Organization: U.S. Army, Company C, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division.
Place and date: Near Songnae-dong, Korea, Nov. 30, 1952.
Entered service at: Whittier, N.C.
Birth: 1932, Cherokee, N.C.
Killed in action: Nov. 30, 1952
G.O. NO.: 19, March 18, 1954.

Citation: Private First Class Charles George, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company C 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy on the night of 30 November 1952, near Songnae-dong, Korea. He was a member of a raiding party committed to engage the enemy and capture a prisoner for interrogation. Forging up the rugged slope of the key terrain feature, the group was subjected to intense mortar and machinegun fire and suffered several casualties. Throughout the advance, he fought valiantly and, upon reaching the crest of the hill, leaped into the trenches and closed with the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. When friendly troops were ordered to move back upon completion of the assignment, he and two comrades remained to cover the withdrawal. While in the process of leaving the trenches a hostile soldier hurled a grenade into their midst. Pfc. George shouted a warning to one comrade, pushed the other soldier out of danger, and, with full knowledge of the consequences, unhesitatingly threw himself upon the grenade, absorbing the full blast of the explosion. Although seriously wounded in this display of valor, he refrained from any outcry which would divulge the position of his companions. The two soldiers evacuated him to the forward aid station and shortly thereafter he succumbed to his wound. Private George's indomitable courage, consummate devotion to duty, and willing self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.

Source: United States Army

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