Joseph F. Keenan, Hospital Corpsman Third Class, United States Navy: For extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy while assigned as a Hospital Corpsman for Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division serving in the Republic of Korea on 26 and 27 March 1953. On the evening of 26 march, 3,500 enemy soldiers attacked 120 Marines at three small outposts forward of the Marines’ main line of resistance. Petty Officer Keenan’s company moved forward to repel the enemy when they were pinned down by murderous artillery and mortar fire. While moving to treat one of the numerous casualties, he was struck by shrapnel in the hand. Petty Officer Keenan waived off medical attention from another hospital corpsman, directing that assistance to his wounded Marines, when he was struck a second time in the head. Despite the serious nature of his wounds, he returned to the fight immediately after basic treatment and a resupply of medical items. Moving through the open terrain to treat the wounded, Petty Officer Keenan was partially blinded by dirt from one of the many nearby explosions. Although his sight was impaired, he found and assisted two hospital corpsmen in caring for bleeding Marines in an open position. Having helped the casualties there, Petty Officer Keenan struck out to find other wounded despite his own pain and the constant threat of deadly shellfire. Petty Officer Keenan then proceeded to collect and treat six casualties in a gulley that afforded scant cover. When two Marines saw his wounds and his dangerous situation, he defiantly refused their pleas to seek treatment and safety for himself. Holding his duty to his patients paramount, he remained with his downed comrades. Later in the fight, Petty Officer Keenan was struck by shrapnel as he continued his ministrations of mercy, gallantly sacrificing his life for his Marines and for his Country. Petty Officer Keenan’s courage, drive, and unselfish dedication to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.