Page 15 - Don Mason, Master Chief, Korean War

MASON

OFFICIAL CITATION

For extraordinary heroism as a Medical Corpsman while serving with

a Marine Infantry Company in action against enemy aggressor forces

in Korea on the night of October 12, 1952. When the platoon was

pinned down by heavy enemy machine-gun and automatic-weapons

fire forward of the main line of resistance, Mason unhesitatingly

moved about the devastated area to administer first aid and to lend

words of encouragement to the many wounded Marines. Although

painfully wounded himself and temporarily blinded by the searing

flash burns of an enemy concussion grenade which exploded directly

in front of him, he steadfastly continued to render medical treatment

to other casualties. Informed that a comrade was seriously wounded

and was unable to be moved, he requested to be taken by the hand

and led to the side of the stricken man where he succeeded in

applying a difficult splint by sense of touch. By his courageous

initiative, resolute fortitude and selfless efforts in behalf of others,

Mason served to inspire all who observed him and was instrumental

in saving the lives of many wounded Marines, thereby upholding the

highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.