Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Chipo-ri, Korea, 2 June 1951. 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 beyond
the call of duty in action against the enemy. His platoon was
attacking heavily defended hostile positions on commanding ground
when the leader was wounded and evacuated.
Sgt. Charlton assumed command, rallied the men, and spearheaded the
assault against the hill. Personally eliminating 2 hostile positions and killing 6 of
the enemy with his rifle fire and grenades, he continued up the
slope until the unit suffered heavy casualties and became pinned
down.
Regrouping the men he led them forward only to be again hurled back by a shower of grenades. Despite a severe chest wound, Sgt. Charlton refused medical attention and led a third daring charge which carried to the crest of the ridge.
Observing that the remaining emplacement which had retarded the advance was situated on the reverse slope, he charged it alone, was again hit by a grenade but raked the position with a devastating fire which eliminated it and routed the defenders. The wounds received during his daring exploits resulted in his death but his indomitable courage, superb leadership, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself the infantry, and the military service.
Article > 'Buffalo
Soldier' Earns Medal of Honor In Korean War
Charlton, Cornelius H.
