Lieutenant Colonel LAURENCE M. CORCORAN was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross while a Major for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Haman, Korea. On 25 August 1950, Major Corcoran was the commander of a company which was attacked and overrun by enemy forces of superior numbers. Although wounded, Major Corcoran successfully reorganized the unit, personally led a counter attack and restored the position. Continually disregarding his personal safety, Major Corcoran effectively performed his mission for the next two days, directing his men in repulsing two additional attacks and efficiently reforming an attached Republic of Korea Army company which began to withdraw. When the enemy again assaulted the position on 28 August, Major Corcoran courageously ignored a second wound, moved about the fire-swept area and encouraged and inspired his men in continuing their defense. The following day, when the enemy once again attacked under a heavy barrage and succeeded in overrunning the sector, Major Corcoran directed the evacuation of the small group of men remaining and assisted the injured in successfully withdrawing to the rear.

LTC. Corcoran joined the Legion of Valor in 1963 and resided in Florida.