Russell Junior House

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Russell Junior House (563100), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Gunner in a Marine 70-mm. Recoilless Rifle Platoon of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), at Kimpo Airfield, Korea, on 18 September 1950. When the rest of his platoon was pinned down by intense small-arms fire from concealed hostile positions, Corporal House moved forward alone in the face of intense enemy fire, throwing a hand grenade and single-handedly killing five of the enemy while bringing his gun into position. Repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire in order to ready the ammunitions for firing, he prepared to engage the hostile troops at point blank range and was sighting in at the target when struck down. As a result of Corporal House’s great personal courage, fortitude and fighting spirit, his platoon was inspired to heroic efforts in holding the enemy at bay, and the opposing troops were finally destroyed. His devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds reflects the highest credit upon Corporal House and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.