Philip J Burr

SECOND LIETENANT PHILIP J. BURR, United States Marine Corps Reserve. For extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Commander of Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, First Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 6 October 1952. When the enemy launched a devastating artillery and mortar barrage followed by an infantry assault while his platoon was defending an outpost forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Burr bravely made his way through the trenches in the face of withering hostile fire, encouraging his men, carrying ammunition, organizing the defense and supervising the evacuation of the wounded Marines. Although painfully wounded, he steadfastly refused to accept medical attention and continued to direct his men in the defense of the position. Hurled to the ground and wounded a second time by the explosion of an enemy shell while engaged in carrying ammunition until he was again seriously wounded. Immobilized by his many wounds and evacuated to the medical aid bunker, he skillfully controlled the defense while receiving treatment from a corpsman and maintained complete charge of his unit until relieved by another officer. By his indomitable courage, superb leadership and valiant fighting spirit, Second Lieutenant Burr served to inspire his men to heroic endeavor in their successful defense of the outpost. His outstanding bravery, exceptional fortitude and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of great odds reflect the highest credit upon himself and enhance the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Mr. Burr resides in Massachusetts.