Navy Federal Credit Union

Charles Turner served in the Massachusetts National Guard before being called to active duty in 1941. He served in combat landing at Salerno, Italy, and continued until he was captured on November 19, 1943. He spent the next year-and-a-half in a German Prisoner of War camp.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant First Class

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 2, 1950

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 10 (February 16, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class Charles William Turner (ASN: 20157371), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving with 2d Reconnaissance Company, 2d Infantry Division, in action against enemy aggressor forces at Yongsan, Korea, on 2 September 1950. A large enemy force launched a mortar and automatic weapon supported assault against his platoon. Sergeant First Class Turner, a section leader, quickly organized his unit for defense and then observed that the attack was directed at the tank section 100 yards away. Leaving his secured section he dashed through a hail of fire to the threatened position and, mounting a tank, manned the exposed turret machinegun. Disregarding the intense enemy fire he calmly held this position delivering deadly accurate fire and pointing out targets for the tank’s 75-mm. Gun. His action resulted in the destruction of seven enemy machinegun nests. Although severely wounded he remained at the gun shouting encouragement to his comrades. During the action the tank received over 50 direct hits; the periscopes and antenna were shot away and three rounds hit the machinegun mount. Despite this fire he remained at his post until a burst of enemy fire cost him his life. This intrepid and heroic performance enabled the platoon to withdraw and later launch an attack which routed the enemy. Sergeant First Class Turner’s valor and example reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.