Medal of Honor: Stanley R. Christianson, Korean War, September 29, 1950

Name: Stanley R. Christianson
Rank: Private First Class
War: Korean War
Date of Action: September 29, 1950
Unit: Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Reinforced)
Accredited to: Mindoro, Wisconsin

Summary of Action
During the fighting for Seoul, Christianson manned an isolated listening post on Hill 132 in the early morning hours when the enemy launched a sudden attack. He quickly dispatched another Marine to alert the platoon, then chose to remain at his exposed position. Fully aware that escape was unlikely, he poured relentless fire into the oncoming North Korean troops as they advanced with rifles, automatics, and grenades. He accounted for seven enemy dead around his post before being fatally struck down as the position was overrun. His sacrifice gave his platoon precious time to organize defenses, enabling them to repel the assault and inflict devastating losses: 41 enemy killed, many more wounded, and several captured. By his selfless stand, Christianson saved his comrades and turned the tide of the fight at the cost of his own life.

Medal of Honor Citation
CHRISTIANSON, STANLEY R.
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Seoul, Korea, 29 September 1950. Entered service at: Mindoro, Wis. Born: 24 January 1925, Mindoro, Wis. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company E, in action against enemy aggressor forces at Hill 132, in the early morning hours. Manning 1 of the several listening posts covering approaches to the platoon area when the enemy commenced the attack, Pfc. Christianson quickly sent another marine to alert the rest of the platoon. Without orders, he remained in his position and, with full knowledge that he would have slight chance of escape, fired relentlessly at oncoming hostile troops attacking furiously with rifles, automatic weapons, and incendiary grenades. Accounting for 7 enemy dead in the immediate vicinity before his position was overrun and he himself fatally struck down, Pfc. Christianson, by his superb courage, valiant fighting spirit, and devotion to duty, was responsible for allowing the rest of the platoon time to man positions, build up a stronger defense on that flank, and repel the attack with 41 of the enemy destroyed, many more wounded, and 3 taken prisoner. His self-sacrificing actions in the face of overwhelming odds sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Pfc. Christianson gallantly gave his life for his country.