During the Korean War, on June 7, 1951 the communists launched an all out attack on a strategic hilltop the 31st Infantry Regiment. Manning a machine gun was Pfc, Jack Hanson. The maelstrom of bullets going both ways wounded the four riflemen holding the position alongside Hanson.
As they were evacuated Hanson was told to relocate to a more tenable position. Meanwhile, the charging enemy forces were threatening to overrun.
Disregarding the order, Hanson held his position to continue engaging the enemy. As others fell back, they reported that Hanson was single-handedly putting up a dogged defense. He never arrived at the fallback position.
Near dawn, his company counterattacked. When they regained their previous positions, they found Pfc. Hanson lying in front of his gun emplacement. His machine gun ammunition was depleted and in his right hand was an empty .45 caliber pistol. In his left hand was a blood soaked machete. All around him were the bodies of 22 slain enemies.
For his valiant last stand, Hanson was awarded the Medal of Honor.
In the the Korean War
In the early morning hours
A lion who did roar
A soldier who did not cower
When others fell back
He kept his position
He continued the attack
Held fast to the mission
One against them all
On history's written page
But he answered the call
And continued to engage
When his ammo was depleted
He grabbed his machete
He would not be defeated
He stood battle ready
No more ammo and no gun
Yet he still did remain
A whole army against one
Around him 22 slain
He wasn't forced to respond
This hero volunteered
To the call he went beyond
He chose bravery over fear
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