Cornelius H. Charlton
United States Army
Sergeant (Posthumous Medal of Honor Recipient)
Born: July 24, 1929 — East Gulf, West Virginia
Home of Record: The Bronx, New York
Killed in Action: June 2, 1951
Conflict: Korean War
Unit: Company C, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division
Service and Sacrifice
Sergeant Cornelius H. Charlton was serving in Korea when his unit was ordered to seize a heavily defended enemy-held hill near Chipo-ri.
During the assault, the platoon leader was wounded. Sgt. Charlton immediately took command. Under intense enemy fire, he led repeated attacks up the slope. He was wounded in the chest but refused evacuation. Instead, he continued advancing, throwing grenades and directing his men forward.
When enemy fire pinned the platoon down near the crest, Sgt. Charlton charged ahead alone, destroying hostile positions and rallying his troops. He was mortally wounded during the final push, but his actions broke the enemy defense and secured the objective.
For his extraordinary heroism and leadership, he was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously.
Reflection
Courage is often quiet.
Sometimes it climbs a hill while wounded, refusing to stop because others are counting on it.
Sergeant Charlton did not fall back.
He moved forward.
Today, we remember a young man who became a leader in the hardest moment and gave everything so others could live.
Coolbeaners Appreciation
At mickyspano.com/, we honor the men and women who stepped forward when our nation called.
Today, The Micky Spano Show recognizes Sergeant Cornelius H. Charlton, United States Army, Korean War hero and Medal of Honor recipient, who gave his life on June 2, 1951.
We remember his leadership.
We honor his sacrifice.
And we speak his name.
mickyspano.com/
The Micky Spano Show
Honor The Fallen, Support The Living, Teach the next generation
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