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First Name: Charles

Last Name: Turner

Birthplace: Boston, MA, USA

Gender: Male

Branch: Army (1784 - present)



Home of Record: Boston, MA
Middle Name: William



Date of Birth: 28 May 1921

Date of Death: 02 September 1950

Rank: Sergeant First Class

Years Served: 1941 - 1950
Charles William Turner

   
Engagements:
•  World War II (1941 - 1945)
•  Korean War (1950 - 1953)

Biography:

Charles William Turner
Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army
Medal of Honor Recipient
Korean War

Charles William Turner was born on 28 May 1921 at Boston, MA. Charles was a Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Army 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 1 September 1950.

Medal of Honor

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

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

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.

Other Medals

In addition to the Medal of Honor, SFC Turner was awarded the Purple Heart.

Death and Burial

Sergeant First Class Charles William Turner was killed in action on 2 September 1950. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA, in Section 12, Lot 7762.



Honoree ID: 1246   Created by: MHOH

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