Dale Eldon Christensen

Dale Eldon Christensen (May 31, 1920 – August 4, 1944) was a United States Army officer and a recipient of the United States military's highest decoration—the Medal of Honor—for his actions in World War II.

Biography

Christensen joined the Army from Gray, Iowa in October 1940, and by July 16, 1944, was serving as a second lieutenant in Troop E of the 112th Cavalry Regiment during the Battle of Driniumor River. On that day, along the Driniumor River in New Guinea, he single-handedly attacked and silenced an enemy machine gun. Three days later, he reconnoitered an enemy strong point alone, then led his platoon in an assault which successfully destroyed the position. He was killed in action on August 4, while again leading his platoon in an attack against an enemy position. For these actions, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on May 10, 1945.

Christensen was buried at the Manila American Cemetery in Manila, the Philippines.

Medal of Honor citation

Second Lieutenant Christensen's official Medal of Honor citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty along the Driniumor River, New Guinea, from 16-July 19, 1944. 2d Lt. Christensen repeatedly distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in the continuous heavy fighting which occurred in this area from 16-July 19,. On July 16, his platoon engaged in a savage fire fight in which much damage was caused by 1 enemy machinegun effectively placed.