McGAHA, CHARLES L. - Medal of Honor Recipient
Rank and organization: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company G, 35th Infantry,
25th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Lupao, Luzon, Philippine Islands,
7 February 1945. Entered service at: Crosby, Tenn. Birth: Crosby, Tenn.
G.O. No.: 30, 2 April 1946. Citation: He displayed conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity. His platoon and 1 other from Company G were pinned down
in a roadside ditch by heavy fire from 5 Japanese tanks supported by 10
machineguns and a platoon of riflemen. When 1 of his men fell wounded 40
yards away, he unhesitatingly crossed the road under a hail of bullets
and moved the man 75 yards to safety. Although he had suffered a deep arm
wound, he returned to his post. Finding the platoon leader seriously wounded,
he assumed command and rallied his men. Once more he braved the enemy fire
to go to the aid of a litter party removing another wounded soldier. A
shell exploded in their midst, wounding him in the shoulder and killing
2 of the party. He picked up the remaining man, carried him to cover, and
then moved out in front deliberately to draw the enemy fire while the American
forces, thus protected, withdrew to safety. When the last man had gained
the new position, he rejoined his command and there collapsed from loss
of blood and exhaustion. M/Sgt. McGaha set an example of courage and leadership
in keeping with the highest traditions of the service.
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