George Peterson (Medal of Honor)

George Peterson was a United States Army soldier who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Korean War.

Specifically, Private First Class Peterson, serving with Company I, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy on November 26, 1950, near Kujangdong, Korea. When his platoon was surrounded by a numerically superior enemy force, Peterson voluntarily took up a position on the platoon's flank and defended it against a strong enemy assault. He repulsed several attacks, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. When his ammunition was exhausted, he continued to fight, using his bayonet and rifle as a club. Peterson continued to hold his position until he was mortally wounded. His extraordinary heroism and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.