Born in Arkansas on September 29, 1924 Lloyd Burke entered the U.S. Army, 1 st Cavalry Division, and earned the rank of First Lieutenant during the Korean War. On October 28th 1951 near Chong-dong, Korea Lt. Burke distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy.
Intense enemy fire had pinned down leading elements of his company committed to secure commanding ground when Lt. Burke left the command post to rally and urge the men to follow him toward three bunkers impeding the advance.
Dashing to an exposed vantage point he threw several grenades at the bunker, then returning for in M1 rifle and adapter, he made a lone assault, wiping out the position and killing the crew. Closing on the center bunker he lobbed grenades through the opening and with his pistol, killed 3 of its occupants attempting to surround him.
Ordering his men to follow, Lt. Burke charged the third emplacement, catching several grenades in midair and hurling them back at the enemy.
Inspired by his display of valor his men stormed forward, overran the hostile position, but were again pinned down by increased fire. Securing a light machine gun and 3 boxes of ammunition, 1st Lt. Burke dashed through the impact area to open knoll, set up his gun and poured crippling fire into the ranks of the enemy, killing approximately 75.
Although wounded, he ordered more ammunition, reloading and destroying 2 mortar emplacements and a machine gun position with his accurate fire.
Cradling the weapon in his arms he then lead his men forward, killing some 25 or more of the retreating enemy and securing the objective. Lt. Burke’s heroic action and daring exploits inspired his small force of35 troops. His unflinching courage and outstanding leadership reflect the highest credit upon himself, the infantry, and the US Army.