The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Charles Edward Pope (NSN: 5550552), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with a Marine infantry company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in Korea on 22 February 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Pope displayed incredible courage and devotion to duty. He was a member of a combat patrol operating far forward of the main line of resistance when it was subjected to murderous hostile mortar and artillery fire and several casualties were sustained. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he courageously traversed the entire area rendering first aid to his injured comrades. Although painfully wounded during the initial phase of the action, he gallantly disregarded his condition and continued his intrepid movements. Ignoring suggestions to take cover and despite his weakened condition, he never faltered in his devotion to his comrades. While moving forward to aid a stricken Marine, he collapsed, mortally wounded, gallantly giving his life for his country. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Pope’s unparalleled display of courage together with his selfless devotion to his comrades served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.