Korean War - U.S. Army

Gordon Maynard Craig

• Rank: Corporal
• Conflict/Era: Korean War
• Unit/Command:
  16th Reconnaissance Company,
  1st Cavalry Division
• Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
• Medal of Honor Action Date: September 10, 1950
• Medal of Honor Action Place: Kasan, Korea

Cpl. Craig, 16th Reconnaissance Company, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. During the attack on a strategic enemy-held hill, his company's advance was subjected to intense hostile grenade, mortar, and small-arms fire. Cpl. Craig and four comrades moved forward to eliminate an enemy machine-gun nest that was hampering the company's advance. At that instance an enemy machine gunner hurled a hand grenade at the advancing men. Without hesitating or attempting to seek cover for himself, Cpl. Craig threw himself on the grenade and smothered its burst with his body. His intrepid and selfless act, in which he unhesitantly gave his life for his comrades, inspired them to attack with such ferocity that they annihilated the enemy machine-gun crew, enabling the company to continue its attack. Cpl. Craig's noble self-sacrifice reflects the highest credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions of the military service.