Laurence M. Corcoran

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Laurence M. Corcoran, Major (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as the Commanding Officer of an Infantry Regiment of the 1st Cavalry Division. Major Corcoran distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Haman, Korea, on 25 August 1950. Major Corcoran’s company was attacked and overrun by enemy forces of superior numbers. Although wounded, Major Corcoran successfully reorganized the unit, personally led a counter-attack, and restored the position. Continually disregarding his personal safety, Major Corcoran effectively performed his mission for the next two days, directing his men in repulsing two additional attacks and efficiently reforming an attached Republic of Korea Army company that began to withdraw. When the enemy again assaulted the position on 28 August 1950, Major Corcoran courageously ignored a second wound, moved about the fire-swept area, and encouraged and inspired his men in continuing their defense. The following day, when the enemy once again attacked under a heavy barrage and succeeded in overrunning the sector, Major Corcoran directed the evacuation of the small group of men remaining and assisted the injured in successfully withdrawing to the rear.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army, Korea: General Orders No. 1098 (December 26, 1953)