Charles W. Turner

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Charles W. Turner
May 28, 1921 (1921-05-28) – September 2, 1950 (aged 29)
Medal of Honor recipient
Place of birth	Boston, Massachusetts
Place of death	Near Yongsan, Korea
Allegiance	United States of America
Service/branch	United States Army
Rank	Sergeant First Class
Unit	2d Reconnaissance Company, 2d Infantry Division
Battles/wars	Korean War
Awards	Medal of Honor Purple Heart

Charles W. Turner (May 28, 1921 – September 2, 1950) was a United States Army soldier and a recipient of the United States military's highest decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his actions in the Korean War. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on September 1, 1950.

1 Medal of Honor citation
2 See also
3 Notes
4 References

[edit] Medal of Honor citation

Rank and organization: Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, 2d Reconnaissance Company, 2d Infantry Division

Place and date: Near Yongsan, Korea, 1 September 1950

Entered service at: Massachusetts. Birth: Boston, Massachusetts

G.O. No.: 10, 16 February 1951

Citation:

Sfc. Turner distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. A large enemy force launched a mortar and automatic weapon supported assault against his platoon. Sfc. Turner, a section leader, quickly organized his unit for defense and then observed that the attack was directed at the tank section 100 yards away. Leaving his secured section he dashed through a hail of fire to the threatened position and, mounting a tank, manned the exposed turret machine gun. Disregarding the intense enemy fire he calmly held this position delivering deadly accurate fire and pointing out targets for the tank's 75mm. gun. His action resulted in the destruction of 7 enemy machine gun nests. Although severely wounded he remained at the gun shouting encouragement to his comrades. During the action the tank received over 50 direct hits; the periscopes and antenna were shot away and 3 rounds hit the machine gun mount. Despite this fire he remained at his post until a burst of enemy fire cost him his life. This intrepid and heroic performance enabled the platoon to withdraw and later launch an attack which routed the enemy. Sfc. Turner's valor and example reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.^[1]