"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty along the Driniumor River, New Guinea, from
16-July 19, 1944. 2d Lt. Christensen repeatedly distinguished himself by
conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in the
continuous heavy fighting which occurred in this area from 16-July 19.
On July 16, his platoon engaged in a savage fire fight in which much
damage was caused by 1 enemy machine gun effectively placed. 2d Lt.
Christensen ordered his men to remain under cover, crept forward under
fire, and at a range of 15 yards put the gun out of action with hand grenades. Again, on July 19, while attacking an enemy position strong in mortars
and machine guns, his platoon was pinned to the ground by intense fire.
Ordering his men to remain under cover, he crept forward alone to locate
definitely the enemy automatic weapons and the best direction from
which to attack. Although his rifle was struck by enemy fire and knocked
from his hands he continued his reconnaissance, located 5 enemy
machine guns, destroyed 1 with hand grenades and rejoined his platoon.
He then led his men to the point selected for launching the attack and,
calling encouragement, led the charge. This assault was successful and
the enemy was driven from the positions with a loss of 4 mortars and 10
machine guns and leaving many dead on the field. On August 4, 1944, near Afua, Dutch New Guinea,
2d Lt. Christensen was killed in action about 2 yards from his
objective while leading his platoon in an attack on an enemy machine gun
position. 2d Lt. Christensen's leadership, intrepidity, and repeatedly
demonstrated gallantry in action at the risk of his life, above and
beyond the call of duty, exemplify the highest traditions of the U.S.
Armed Forces.".
From 2nd Lt. Christensen's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on May 10, 1945.
Thank you for your service and may you be at peace,
Brian
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