Gordon Maynard Craig
Corporal, U.S. Army
Medal of Honor Recipient
Korean War

Gordon Maynard Craig was born on 1 August 1929 in Brockton, MA. He was a Corporal in the U.S. Army and assigned to the 16th Reconnaissance Company, 1st Cavalry Division in Korea during the Korean War. He posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his actions on 10 September 1950.

Medal of Honor

Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, 16th Reconnaissance Company, 1st Cavalry Division

Place and date: Near Kasan, Korea, 10 September 1950

Citation: Cpl. Craig, 16th Reconnaissance Company, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. During the attack on a strategic enemy-held hill his company's advance was subjected to intense hostile grenade, mortar and small-arms fire. Cpl. Craig and 4 comrades moved forward to eliminate an enemy machine gun nest that was hampering the company's advance. At that instance an enemy machine gunner hurled a hand grenade at the advancing men. Without hesitating or attempting to seek cover for himself, Cpl. Craig threw himself on the grenade and smothered its burst with his body. His intrepid and selfless act, in which he unhesitantly gave his life for his comrades, inspired them to attack with such ferocity that they annihilated the enemy machine gun crew, enabling the company to continue its attack. Cpl. Craig's noble self-sacrifice reflects the highest credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions of the military service.

Other Medals

In addition to the Medal of Honor, Corporal Craig was also awarded the Purple Heart.

Naming Honor

The Corporal Gordon M. Craig Army Reserve Center in Brockton, MA, was named in his honor.

Burial

Corporal Gordon Maynard Craig is buried at Elmwood Cemetery, East Bridgewater, MA.