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Elmer J. Burr

1908
Medal of Honor - Army

Elmer J. Burr served the U.S. Army.

Service Record
U.S. Army
Medal of Honor
Medal of Honor
24 December 1942 · Buna, New Guinea · First Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company 1, 127th Infantry, 32d Infantry Division.

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty. During an attack near Buna, New Guinea, on 24 December 1942, 1st Sergeant. Burr saw an enemy grenade strike near his company commander. Instantly and with heroic self-sacrifice he threw himself upon it, smothering the explosion with his body. 1st Sergeant. Burr thus gave his life in saving that of his commander.

66, 11 Oct. 1943.
Awards & Decorations 1

For valor

Medal of Honor - Army posthumous December 24, 1942 · Buna, New Guinea · First Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company 1, 127th Infantry, 32d Infantry Division. 66, 11 Oct. 1943.
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty. During an attack near Buna, New Guinea, on 24 December 1942, 1st Sergeant. Burr saw an enemy grenade strike near his company commander. Instantly and with heroic self-sacrifice he threw himself upon it, smothering the explosion with his body. 1st Sergeant. Burr thus gave his life in saving that of his commander.
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Record added September 19, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated September 19, 2026

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Elmer J. Burr
U.S. Army
Medal of Honor - Army

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