Earl D. Midkiff

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Earl D. Midkiff (667911), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while attached to Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 3 November 1950. When an enemy hand grenade landed in the foxhole he and a fellow Marine were occupying in mountainous terrain during a heavy enemy attack just at daybreak, Private First Class Midkiff immediately picked u the grenade and attempted to hurl it back toward the enemy. Before he could release the grenade, it exploded, severely wounding him in the face and hands. By his alert and courageous action at the risk of his own life, Private First Class Midkiff undoubtedly saved his comrade from serious injury and possible death. His outstanding courage and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.