This Memorial Day, we remember those who sacrificed so we could live in freedom, those who gave their lives while serving. And we鈥檙e thinking of those who have lost someone they love. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for our freedom!
Charles George: The Korean War Hero from Cherokee, NC
Did you know?
The Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Asheville, NC was renamed the Charles George Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in 2017 after approval by both the US House and Senate. On the grounds of the VA stands a statue of Charles George.
On November 30, 1952, Charles George displayed conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty by giving his life to defend his聽nation, complete his mission, and save his friends.
Here is his story from his Medal of Honor Citation.
Pfc. George, a member of Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy on the night of 30 November 1952.
He was a member of a raiding party committed to engage the enemy and capture a prisoner for interrogation. Forging up the rugged slope of the key terrain feature, the group was subjected to intense mortar and machine gun fire and suffered several casualties.
Throughout the advance, he fought valiantly and, upon reaching the crest of the hill, leaped into the trenches and closed with the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. When friendly troops were ordered to move back upon completion of the assignment, he and 2 comrades remained to cover the withdrawal.
While in the process of leaving the trenches a hostile soldier hurled a grenade into their midst. Pfc. George shouted a warning to 1 comrade, pushed the other soldier out of danger, and, with full knowledge of the consequences, unhesitatingly threw himself upon the grenade, absorbing the full blast of the explosion. Although seriously wounded in this display of valor, he refrained from any outcry which would divulge the position of his companions. The 2 soldiers evacuated him to the forward aid station and shortly thereafter he succumbed to his wound.
A duplicate of this bronze statue of Charles George in the Cherokee Veterans Memorial Park in Cherokee is located outside the Charles George Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Asheville, NC.
Pfc. George鈥檚 indomitable courage, consummate devotion to duty, and willing self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.