Medal of Honor: Elmer J. Burr – World War II – New Guinea – December 1942
In the steaming jungles of Buna, a single split-second decision meant the difference between life and death. Without hesitation, a First Sergeant chose sacrifice so his commander might live.
December 26, 2025
Name: Elmer J. Burr
Rank: First Sergeant
Organization: U.S. Army
Unit: Company I, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division
Place: Buna, New Guinea
Entered Service At: Menasha, Wisconsin
Born: Neenah, Wisconsin
Summary of Action
During the brutal Buna Campaign in New Guinea, First Sergeant Elmer J. Burr was engaged in a determined attack against well-entrenched Japanese forces on 24 December 1942. Combat in the area was close, chaotic, and relentless, with grenades and small-arms fire exploding at close quarters amid dense jungle terrain.
As his company pressed forward, an enemy grenade suddenly landed near the company commander. Instantly recognizing the mortal danger to his leader and the unit’s command structure, First Sergeant Burr acted without hesitation or regard for his own life. He deliberately threw himself upon the grenade, absorbing the full force of the explosion with his body.
By his swift and selfless action, First Sergeant Burr saved the life of his company commander and preserved the leadership of the unit at a critical moment in battle. His sacrifice embodied the highest ideals of courage, loyalty, and devotion to duty.
Medal of Honor Citation
