"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 machine guns and a platoon of
riflemen. When 1 of his men fell wounded 40 yards (37 m) away, he
unhesitatingly crossed the road under a hail of bullets and moved the
man 75 yards (69 m) 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."
From M/Sgt. McGaha's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on March 27, 1946.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
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