On September 29, 1950, during a fierce attack near Seoul, Korea, PFC Stanley Christianson manned a forward listening post when enemy forces launched a surprise assault. After sending another Marine to warn his platoon, he stayed behind alone, fully aware he likely wouldn’t survive. He fired relentlessly, killing at least 7 enemy soldiers before being overrun and fatally wounded. His stand gave his platoon precious time to fortify their defenses and ultimately repel the attack, killing 41 enemy troops and capturing three. For his extraordinary bravery and selfless sacrifice, PFC Christianson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

Medal of Honor Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division (reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces at Hill 132, Seoul, Korea, in the early morning hours of September 29, 1950. Manning one of the several listening posts covering approaches to the platoon area when the enemy commenced the attack, Private First Class 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 seven enemy dead in the immediate vicinity before his position was overrun and he himself fatally struck down, Private First Class 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, and many more wounded and three taken prisoner. His self-sacrificing actions in the face of overwhelming odds sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Private First Class Christianson gallantly gave his life for his country.

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